Shipyard to hire 400 apprentices over three years

The North Quay shipyard will take on 400 apprentices over the next three years, as orders for ferries and research vessels fill its books until the end of the decade.

Apprentices will train as welders, electricians and engineers, with places reserved for young people from the city's eastern neighbourhoods.

Smaller suppliers in the region are expected to benefit, as many contracts will be awarded to local firms.

The company will present further details to investors at its annual meeting in the spring.