Politicians speak of sadness at news and vow to help
It’s extremely disappointing to see a business which has been at the heart of our communities for so long enter administration. This will be a difficult time for the employees of Dawnfresh and their families
Angela Crawley MP
Politicians have expressed their disappointment after this week’s announcement that 200 jobs have been lost at Dawnfresh Seafoods.
The fish factory in Uddingston will close with immediate effect as the company enters administration.
It’s understood workers don’t even know if they will receive their wages at the end of this week as local representatives aim to fight their corner.
The site had suffered from rising costs, overcapacity and unsustainable cash flow problems, leaving winding up the only option say the firm.
Now, 200 redundancies have been announced, with 77 staff being retained to assist the joint administrators in the winding up process.
MSP for Uddingston and Bellshill Stephanie Callaghan said: “I’m bitterly disappointed by the news that the Dawnfresh site in Uddingston will be closing with immediate effect, resulting in 200 redundancies.
“I am also extremely disappointed to hear this news via newspaper reports.
“I have been working to facilitate dialogue and encourage interested parties to come forward.
“I am aware that one party has expressed an interest and made an offer to take over the site and save all the jobs.
“I will continue to work proactively with others to fight for those affected by this closure and support a successful takeover of this crucial operation.
“If any constituents require more information please don’t hesitate to contact me via email.”
Central Scotland MSP for Scottish Labour Monica Lennon says she too has been in“constant talks”with Dawnfresh after an announcement about the site’s future in September.
She told us:“this is a devastating blow for the workforce at Dawnfresh Uddingston and my thoughts today are with the workers, with their families and the wider community, because this really is terrible, terrible news.
“I have reached out to the Bakers Union and I commend the work they’re doing to protect and defend and their members.
“I’ve also asked for an urgent meeting with the Scottish Government’s employment and fair work minister because right now the workers don’t even know if they’ll get paid their wages at the end of the week.
“I’m really disappointed in the way that Dawnfresh have been treating their workers.
“Right now, the priority is to make sure that workers get all the support that they need and deserve.”
And local SNP MP Angela Crawley (Lanark & Hamilton East) added:“it is extremely disappointing to see a business which has been at the heart of our communities for so long enter into administration.
“This will be a difficult time for the employees of Dawnfresh and their families and I would like to offer my support to anyone who may need it.
“I will continue to work with stakeholders in a bid to ensure that a buyer is found and to prevent any redundancies.”