THE deputy First Minister has vowed to leave “no stone unturned” in securing a future for the state-owned Ferguson Marine shipyard.
Speaking ahead of a summit on Thursday about the future of the shipbuilder, Kate Forbes said progress towards securing a sustainable future for the business “continues to be made”, while acknowledging that workers had not had a “smooth journey”.
She also said that taking the business into public ownership had saved more than 300 jobs and ensured two new ferries would be delivered.
She said: “I want to thank the GMB union for organising this summit and bringing the key players with an interest in a sustainable future for Ferguson Marine to the table.
READ MORE: Scottish Parliament declares nationwide housing emergency
“I very much hope that the conversations which take place will help to shape future discussions on a sustainable future for the yard.
“I’m pleased to see that progress continues to be made but I do, of course, recognise that this has not been a smooth journey for the workforce.
“Our decision to take Fergusons into public ownership saved the last commercial shipyard on the Clyde from closure, rescued more than 300 jobs, and ensured that the two ferries – vital for our island communities – will be delivered.
“I am committed to leaving no stone unturned when it comes to pursuing a sustainable future for Ferguson Marine, its workforce, and for wider shipbuilding on the Clyde.”
The summit, which is organised by the GMB union, will be attended by union officials, members of the Scottish Parliament, councillors and company executives, alongside the deputy First Minister.
Why are you making commenting on The National only available to subscribers?
We know there are thousands of National readers who want to debate, argue and go back and forth in the comments section of our stories. We’ve got the most informed readers in Scotland, asking each other the big questions about the future of our country.
Unfortunately, though, these important debates are being spoiled by a vocal minority of trolls who aren’t really interested in the issues, try to derail the conversations, register under fake names, and post vile abuse.
So that’s why we’ve decided to make the ability to comment only available to our paying subscribers. That way, all the trolls who post abuse on our website will have to pay if they want to join the debate – and risk a permanent ban from the account that they subscribe with.
The conversation will go back to what it should be about – people who care passionately about the issues, but disagree constructively on what we should do about them. Let’s get that debate started!
Callum Baird, Editor of The National
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereLast Updated:
Report this comment Cancel