Unemployment ‘ tsunami’ fears
Over a third of South Ayrshire workers are facing unemployment misery, we can reveal.
Figures show 15,400 workers in the region remain on the UK Government’s furlough scheme – accounting for 34 per cent of the 45,800 working locals.
And it’s a similar picture in East Ayrshire where 17,000, or 32 per cent, of workers are still being furloughed.
Those statistics come just a month before the scheme, which has provided businesses with a grant of up to 80% of staff wages, comes to an end.
First Minister Nicola Sturgeon and South Scotland Labour politician Colin Smyth reckon a targeted extension of the furlough scheme could save thousands of jobs. The pair insist if that doesn’t happen Ayrshire will face an unemployment “tsunami” – but the UK Government have told the Post they are refusing to back down.
Mr Smyth said: “Unemployment in our region has already increased compared to this time last year and that’s just the tip of the iceberg, with the number set to rise as the furlough scheme winds down even further.
“Our region is facing an unemployment tsunami.”
Last week Nicola Sturgeon said the Scottish Government were not in a position to extend furlough but the First Minister added she hopes for constructive talks with UK chiefs.
The Treasury said the furlough scheme will have been open for eight months when it ends in October 31.
A spokesperson said: “We’ve been clear that we can’t sustain this situation indefinitely and must now focus on providing fresh work opportunities for those in need.”