Union seeks answer on Fife paper firm
A union representing workers made redundant when a paper-making firm went into administration at the start of the week are demanding answers on the speed of the closure.
A total of 325 employees lost their jobs when Tullis Russell Papermakers, based at Markinch, Fife, called in administrators earlier this week, with a further 149 positions at risk.
Many of the workers met union leaders today to discuss the situation. It comes as the Scottish Government and Fife Council held a taskforce meeting to mitigate the impact of the decision.
Workers said they were recently told their jobs were safe at the plant.
Unite regional officer Dougie Maguire said: 'Let's be clear that Tullis Russell directors have serious questions to answer about how this company was so suddenly plunged into administration and the workers want answers. This is a heart-breaking situation where the workforce have turned out in their hundreds, shocked, and victims of a hopeless employment law system and a group of directors who didn't give a second thought to throwing them on the dole.
He added: 'Today was also about ensuring our members get the best legal advice possible in the wake of this shock announcement, but it's small crumbs of comfort because people want to be working, not dealing with this situation. Our immediate priority now is our involvement on the Scottish Government taskforce and if there is any possibility that we can save these jobs - we will explore every option.'
Deputy First Minister John Swinney chaired a meeting of politicians, public and private bodies and workforce representatives today.
He said administrators KPMG will 'continue to explore all commercial options for the plant' and that those made redundant will be given support.
Speaking after the meeting in Glenrothes Mr Swinney said: 'We are committed to working together with key public and private bodies, workforce representatives and local politicians to do all we can to support those who have been made redundant and are affected by the decision during this difficult time.'
He went on to say: 'We want to maintain focus and momentum and agreed to meet again in two weeks to agree our draft action plan to support economic growth and job creation in central Fife. That plan will identify what will be delivered, including resources available to support that delivery. The Scottish Government has already announced an initial ÂŁ6,000,000 of financial support. Other members of the taskforce will look to see what resources they can bring to support work in the area.'