MACKIE International is planning to more than double its existing workforce, creating up to 600 jobs over the next four years. The west Belfast textile machinery manufacturer is hoping to bring its current workforce of 400 to over 1,000 by the end of the century through a programme of expansion and diversification. It has also announced plans to increase job opportunities among school leavers in deprived areas in the north and west of the city.

Mackie was recently given the go ahead for a £13.5 million foundry at its Springvale plant, which will create up to 2001 jobs. Last month the company announced record pre tax profits for 1995 of £3.27 million, with turnover up 16 per cent to £22.7 million.