Motherwell Bridge (Malta) insists it is not about to close down, as the General Workers’ Union was claiming.

The GWU said yesterday that, despite its efforts, the company, a subsidiary of the Hili Group, had to dismiss all of its workers but six. It said several attempts were made to save the workers’ jobs.

However, the company said that, as a result of restructuring, it had to terminate the employment of 11 welders and steel workers whose skill was no longer required. As a result, its staff complement fell to 50 employees.

It said it would be investing in a state-of-the-art engine repair workshop in Ħal Far that would be supported by its highly-skilled technicians. It would also be employing 10 new electrical and mechanical technicians to deal with increased demand in specific areas

Motherwell, Bridge (Malta) produces steel structures for the construction sector and crane building.

It said it was “shocked and surprised” by the GWU statement. Managing director Tony Mallia said the claim was totally incorrect, accusing the union of acting irresponsibly.

The group, he said, had embarked on a business restructuring programme geared at adapting its operation to the ever-changing demands of the industry.