JOBS DISAPPOINTMENT FOR ANNAN

12.00.00am GMT Wed 31st Oct 2007

Speaking ahead of a Parliamentary debate in Holyrood on the news of Young’s decision to move part of its Annan operations to Grimsby, Jim Hume, MSP for the South of Scotland, voiced his disappointment.

Jim Hume said:-

“Our sea fishing and related industries and our sea fishing communities are mutually dependent. Not only are they integral to the heritage and traditions of those communities, they are also essential building blocks for the future of the local economy.

“From the perspective of the demographic changes facing much of rural Scotland, these industries are vital to retaining population and hence viable communities.

“The loss of 89 jobs is a massive blow to the local economy especially following the loss of 100 back in February this year.

“I sincerely hope that the company will at the very least ensure that the consultation period is extended and that everything is being done to assist those facing redundancy.

The MSP continued:-

“There are of course inevitable environmental concerns – the last job loss saw part of Annan’s operation move to Thailand.