MCGILL FALLOUT AFFECTS SITE 6 WORK

THE growing fallout from the collapse of McGill has impacted the construction of a major bu i ld i ng at Dundee’s Central Waterfront.

Robertson Construction has confirmed the company had been subcontracted to carry out work on Site 6, opposite V&A Dundee. It is understood that delays to the project are expected as a result.

Details of McGill’s woes have continued to emerge following Friday’s shock announcement that 374 workers were being laid off immediately.

It has emerged company bosses knew as early as last November that the firm was in trouble, and had been given support by Scottish Enterprise and the Scottish Government.

North East MSP Bill Bowman has accused the government of “sleepwalking” into a local jobs crisis, adding: “It appears (business minister Jamie Hepburn) knew of difficulties at this vital local employer and did not act effectively.”

Mr Hepburn has vowed that the workforce will continue to be supported by the government.

An emergency jobs fair has been organised tomorrow at the Apex City Quay Hotel between 12pm-5pm.

He said: “The job losses at McGill are hugely disappointing and I know that this will be a very concerning time for those directly impacted.

“Tomorrow’s event forms part of our response to assist those employees who have been made redundant.

“All those affected will receive the full range of support available to help them take their next steps.”

A buyer for what remains of the business may yet be i dentified, according to administrators KPMG.

Joe FitzPatrick, Dundee City West MSP, said: “The administrators explained that they are exploring the possibility of identifying a buyer for some or all of the business, which may have the potential to provide future employment opportunities for the local workforce.”

A spokesman for the Robertson Group said: “As a major contractor in the Tayside region, we will do everything we can to support workers made redundant as a result of McGill entering administration.

“We are taking steps to ensure continuity on the delivery of Site 6 at Dundee Waterfront, where McGill was our M&E (mechanical and electrical) contractor.”

Dundee City Council’s Discover Work Service has appealed to apprentices to get in touch ahead of tomorrow’s event for help with their CVs.

Apprentices can contact the service’s Rachael Thomas by email on rachael.thomas@dundeecity.gov.uk.

McGill had been sub-contracted to carry out work at Site 6.