Now Reading: Securing bus manufacturing jobs in Scotland
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Securing bus manufacturing jobs in Scotland
A package has been announced to support the retention of manufacturing jobs at Alexander Dennis in Scotland.
On a visit to the bus company’s site in Larbert, Falkirk, First Minister John Swinney confirmed approximately £4 million towards a furlough scheme until work can recommence.
To access this salary support funding, the company will need to provide evidence of sufficient orders to sustain its operations in Scotland.
The Scottish Government has been working intensively with Alexander Dennis, trade unions, the wider public transport sector and the UK Government to secure the company’s future in Scotland.
Alexander Dennis has indicated its belief in its ability to obtain enough orders to keep manufacturing operations in Scotland. In a trade union ballot last week, staff voted 85% in favour of updated terms and conditions for the Scottish workforce.
The furlough scheme will be administered by Alexander Dennis with financial support from the Scottish Government.
The Scottish Government wants to retain the manufacturing workforce of Alexander Dennis. My officials have discussed detailed terms with management and reached agreement on the principles of a company run furlough scheme.
FIRST MINISTER JOHN SWINNEY MSP
To access the Scottish Government funding, the company will need to provide evidence of orders that will enable its manufacturing to continue in Scotland. Although the details are commercially sensitive, I am aware Alexander Dennis is working hard to do that.
This is intended to act as a bridge to a sustainable future for the company in Scotland. During this period, training will also be offered by Scottish Enterprise.
It is essential we protect the skilled manufacturing jobs we need to build our transition to a green industrial economy.
