AN SNP MP has told of his faith in the Scottish Government to find a solution to problems at the Ferguson Marine shipyard in Port Glasgow.
The government earlier this week rejected a call from the owner, Clyde Blowers Capital, controlled by industrial tycoon Jim McColl, to take a stake in the yard. It is in a precarious position, with a troubled £97 million contract to build two new CalMac ferries behind schedule and over budget.
Greenock and Inverclyde MSP Stuart McMillan said his primary concern is to protect shipbuilding in Port Glasgow and the 350 jobs at the yard.
McMillan, whose late father worked at the yard, said: “Along with other politicians, shop stewards and GMB representatives, I attended a meeting last week led by the Finance Secretary, Derek Mackay. This briefing was helpful and indicated a desire to find a solution that keeps shipbuilding in Port Glasgow.
“Everybody in Port Glasgow and across Inverclyde recognises how important our yard is for shipbuilding. It supports jobs and apprenticeships, and contributes to the supply chain and economy as a whole. I appreciate that this dispute is complex, but I have faith that the Scottish Government is working towards a viable and sustainable solution.
“At the heart of this, there are 350 workers who will undoubtedly be worried about their job security going forward. They will have bills to pay and, in some cases, families to support. We also have the apprentices, with many of them completing their apprenticeships this month. This dispute indicates that we actually need more people working in the yard to complete the two CMAL vessels, so it’s not as if there isn’t opportunity.
“I want this matter resolved as soon as possible to remove any further anxiety for Ferguson’s staff, but appreciate that time must be taken to ensure the right decision is made for the sake of our yard and community.”
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