A SKILLS plan to increase job opportunities for people across the Tay Cities Region has been launched for the first time.

The Skills Investment Plan for the Tay Cities Region focuses on the skills needs of people and businesses across Angus, Dundee, Perth and Kinross and north east Fife.

Developed by Skills Development Scotland (SDS) alongside a range of partners including local authorities, colleges and universities, the plan will inform delivery of the Tay Cities Region Deal, which includes funding of up to £20million from Scottish Government towards skills and employability.

The plan focuses on ensuring more people have the skills to access high-quality jobs in the key and growth sectors that drive the region’s economy and features a broad range of measures.

The plan was welcomed by Business, Fair Work and Skills Minister Jamie Hepburn during a visit to the Carnoustie Golf Hotel and Spa in Angus where he met with apprentices and staff members.

He said: “The Scottish Government has committed up to £20m towards developing skills and employability through the Tay Cities Deal, and this plan is fundamental to ensuring that investment boosts fair work, inclusive growth and productivity.

“It’s good news for the people of the region who will benefit from greater opportunities for training and learning throughout their working lives, and for businesses needing a pipeline of talent to meet their growth ambitions.”

The plan is part of an investment that totals £200m over the next 10-15 years.

Ellis Watson, Chair of the Tay Cities Enterprise Forum, offered his backing. He said: “We’re excited by this plan. The good thing about this region is that private and public sectors can work very effectively together as ‘team Tayside’ and deliver effective, common-sense initiatives like this one.”