New staff members have been recruited at Ferguson Marine shipyard, as the SNP Government progresses with work at the site.
On Monday, 07 October, Economy Secretary Derek Mackay MSP met with some of the 17 new recruits who have already started and announced that an additional 10 vacancies are currently being advertised.
In addition, 14 apprentices will complete their apprenticeships this month and stay on as part of the workforce.
The recruitment process is under way as legal discussions continue with administrators to conclude the process of taking the Ferguson Marine shipyard into public ownership.
Visiting the Port Glasgow shipyard, Mr Mackay said:
“My focus is, and has always been, on ensuring completion of the Arran and Uig ferries delivering taxpayers value for money, while also working towards the delivery of the other vessels under construction at the yard. In doing so, we are securing jobs for the workforce through continuity of employment.
“Recruiting more staff to Ferguson Marine is a significant step forward in working towards completion of the two CalMac ferries, as well as achieving the best possible outcome for the yard and its employees. Visiting the yard has enabled me to meet with new recruits and time-served apprentices, to hear about their work and assure them we are doing all we can to ensure the future of the shipyard.
“While we continue to work with the administrators to bring the yard into public ownership, work on the vessels is progressing and the additional staff will play a key role.”
Added Kenneth Gibson MSP:
“Establishing a revised timetable for completion of the two ferries remains a key task for Ferguson’s management and Scottish Ministers will be able to provide a further update further in the coming weeks.
“While there is still more to be done, the actions of the SNP Government have ensured there is a future for Ferguson Marine and my constituents on Arran, as well as those in the Uig triangle, are served by two new state-of-the-art vessels.”
GMB Scotland Secretary Gary Smith said:
“Public ownership secures the future of the yard and this will be welcomed by our members and their families.
“While we are clear that there is no quick fix for Ferguson’s and that the real hard work is still in front of us, this is the right thing to do.
“The workers at Port Glasgow are ready to serve the country. Now let’s get on with the business of building the ships that Scotland needs.”
Regional Secretary for Unite the Union Kenny Jordan commented:
“Unite and Confederation of Shipbuilding and Engineering Unions Scotland welcome the positive progress that Ferguson Marine will continue to build ferries in Port Glasgow, giving an opportunity to expand the current workforce and completion of apprenticeships that will assist future skill requirements.”
ENDS
