Unions to question McVities bosses as closure consultation starts
Unite leaders say they want meaningful talks on saving the Tollcross factory
Last updated 25th May 2021
A 90 day consultation period for McVities workers in Glasgow begins today.
The global firm, Pladis, which owns the Tollcross site has announced plans to move biscuit production to other sides, with the potential for nearly 500 job losses.
Unite's Pat McIlvogue is telling Clyde 1 News he plans to put questions to the firm in a zoom call later today.
"Why are they leaving Tollcross, which is the home of McVities - their major brand - it's unacceptable," he said.
Meaningful consultation plea
"We're looking for a long consultation process to give us the time to formulate and robust counter-proposal which saves those jobs in the east end of Glasgow, and keeps McVities in Scotland.
"There has been no objective justitification given to trade unions on this proposal.
"I hope and pray Pladis executives come with an open mind and a spirit and intent for genuine, meaningful, consultation on this proposal."
On Saturday workers staged a demonstration outside the Tollcross bakery calling on the company to change its mind.
The story so far
https://planetradio.co.uk/clyde/local/news/mcvities-glasgow-tollcross-east-end-close-scotland/
https://planetradio.co.uk/clyde/local/news/action-group-to-explore-mcvities-jobs-options/
In a statement when the restructuring plan was announced David Murray, Pladis UK and Ireland managing director, told us: "We know this news will be difficult for our colleagues at Tollcross. Our priority now is to provide them with the support they need during the consultation process.
"Pladis is home to some of Britain's best loved brands which have been part of the fabric of our society for nearly 200 years.
"In order to protect them for generations to come, we must take steps to address excess capacity in the UK.
"This overcapacity limits our ability to make the right investments in future capabilities to meet the very big changes in our industry."
Hear the latest news on Clyde 1 on FM, DAB, smart speaker or the Rayo app.