450 jobs at risk as seafood factory closes

YOUNG’S Seafood has confirmed it will close a Scots factory after failing to find any ‘viable alternatives’.

Some 450 workers now risk losing their jobs, with ministers branding the move ‘devastating’.

Bosses released a statement yesterday, saying they would press ahead with proposals to shut down the Pinneys salmon producing site in Annan, Dumfriesshire.

A consultation had been under way with staff regarding the company’s plans to move production to Grimsby, with the Scottish plant to close later this year.

Scottish Secretary David Mundell said the decision was ‘devastating’, while Business Minister Paul Wheelhouse called it ‘extremely disappointing’.

Young’s said: ‘Unfortunately, having explored this in detail for some time and despite the consultation process, we have not been able to agree any viable alternatives to the closure of the Pinneys site.

‘Accordingly, the company now intends to progress with its initial proposals. The decision to close the Pinneys site does not mean that collective consultation has ended.

‘We intend to continue to meet with employee representatives on a fortnightly basis to discuss ongoing items, including redeployment opportunities.’

Dumfriesshire, Clydesdale and Tweeddale MP Mr Mundell said: ‘This is absolutely devastating news for Annan and the wider community. The fact we have been expecting it does not lessen the blow in any way.

‘Pinneys’ 450 staff have worked hard and been loyal to the company for many years. Young’s Seafood can’t just walk away, they have a responsibility to do everything they can to support those who are losing their jobs – including through opportunities at their scampi plant and in helping to find a future for the Pinneys site.

‘I will be meeting workers over the next few days and will continue to work with the Scottish Government and local authority to do all we can to secure a future for the plant.

‘The Pinneys workforce have really shown their mettle during this dreadfully difficult time. We owe it to them to fight on for the best possible outcome.’

Mr Wheelhouse said: ‘Today’s confirmation by Young’s Seafood that it will proceed with the closure of the Pinneys site in Annan is not unexpected, but still extremely disappointing and will quite clearly be a bitter blow to the employees, their families and the wider community.

‘Despite our best efforts and offers of support to encourage Young’s to retain some production at the site, it recently became clear Young’s were focused on extracting themselves from the site to concentrate natural salmon production on Grimsby.

‘The Scottish Government and our partners will continue to work to identify and support any potential new investor.’