McAlpine welcomes continued focus on supporting Pinneys workforce into employment

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MSP Joan McAlpine has welcomed continued support from the Scottish Government for the Pinneys’ workforce-  after Rural Secretary Fergus Ewing announced that he will personally take forward the Scottish Government response to the closure of the factory following the recent Government reshuffle.

 

Mr Ewing confirmed that the PACE team established by Paul Wheelhouse, would continue its focus on supporting workers into alternative employment – and that he will travel to Annan on July 19th to launch a jobs fair as part of ongoing efforts.

 

Mr Ewing commented:

 

“Despite our best efforts to convince Young’s to do the right thing and maintain production at the Pinneys site – I am disappointed to see that they are proceeding with their plans to cease production around September.

 

“I reiterated the Scottish Government’s willingness to work with Young’s to attract a new investor to the site, and, most importantly, secure employment for the workforce.

 

Commenting Ms McAlpine said:

 

“I am pleased that one of the Cabinet Secretary’s first actions following the reshuffle will be to visit the region and launch a jobs fair for Pinneys workers. The PACE team established by Paul Wheelhouse when he was Business Minister continues to work intensively on a range of fronts to secure continued employment for the workforce. The action group are facilitating sessions covering career advice, interview skills, advice on job applications and CVs, business start-up, and guidance on the benefit and tax system.

 

“The team has arranged a Jobs Fair at the Victoria Halls in Annan on Thursday 19 July. There will be a number of local and national businesses in attendance that day, and I hope that many of the employees at Pinneys will be able to attend to see what opportunities are available.

 

“I will reiterate my disappointment and frustration at the way Young’s have conducted themselves throughout this process. The focus now is on doing everything that we can to secure suitable employment for those affected by job losses, and I will work with the Cabinet Secretary to ensure the Scottish Government does everything it can.

 

“As ever, anyone who is experiencing difficulties because of how they have been affected by the Pinneys closure is encouraged to approach my office for support.”