#SSI - Task Force Statement
Statement from Chair of the SSI Task Force and Chief Executive of Redcar and Cleveland Borough Council, Amanda Skelton:
“The Task Force met today for the first time since SSI announced plans this week to mothball the steelworks in Redcar.
We were joined by the Business Secretary Sajid Javid and Business Minister Anna Soubry, which reflects the seriousness of the impact on our local economy. We have a group of very committed and passionate representatives on the Task Force with a shared commitment to do everything possible to help the people and communities affected.
We are extremely saddened by today’s news that the company is now being liquidated. Our immediate priorities are site safety and putting in place early support for the SSI workforce and others directly affected. The £80m announced today is very welcome and will help us deliver the support needed for local people and businesses.
Talks are taking place at the highest level to make sure all aspects of the site are managed safely.
Our urgent focus is on the people affected and we are launching a full scale response on site next week. All the agencies involved are working together to provide a single approach and guidance to the workforce on future job opportunities, advice about financial worries and more general health and wellbeing support for the workers and their families.
Other members of the Task Force are assessing the needs of the supply chain and developing a wider economic recovery package to support our communities in the long-term.”