GMB Scotland urges investment in Ferguson Marine

GMB Scotland urges Scottish Government to invest in Ferguson Marine

GMB Scotland today welcomed the Scottish Government’s commitment to the completion of Hulls 801 and 802 at Ferguson Marine and its acknowledgement of the skill and commitment of the workforce.

Responding to the statement of Wellbeing Economy Secretary Neil Gray at the Scottish Parliament, the leading trade union said he was right to acknowledge the Port Glasgow yard’s importance to the wider community but warned urgent investment is needed now to secure long-term success once the ferries are built.

GMB Scotland warned the minister’s repeated promise to sell the publicly-owned shipyard makes little sense given its potential.

Commenting, GMB Scotland senior organiser Gary Cook said:

“The workers of Fergusons are both skilled and committed and, for years, have been scapegoated for the failures of previous ministers and managers.

“It is easy to imagine a bright future for the yard after these ferries are built. That would be a future that keeps it in public-ownership, where it is directly awarded contracts for small ferries and where new generations of apprentices can learn their trade in a busy, profitable business.

“That future is achievable but will demand ambition, investment and strategic planning to secure. We again challenge all parties to outline their plans for the future of the yard and its workforce.

“This yard and its workers have been a political football too long and it is time it became what it should be, a jewel in the crown of Scotland’s shipbuilding industry.”

ENDS

Contact: GMB Scotland Communications on 07738 486317 or email gmbscotcampaigns@gmb.org.uk