Support offered to Michelin as it faces up to cuts

Economy secretary in pledge to Dundee factory as it takes production hit

Scotland’s economy secretary has offered support to Dundee’s under pressure Michelin tyre factory.

Derek Mackay’s pledge came following a briefing with the Baldovie factory’s manager John Reid yesterday after The Courier exclusively revealed the site was to make significant cuts to production and potentially shed scores of jobs.

Dundee City East MSP Shona Robison said she had also been brought up to speed on the situation, which has been brought about after a significant fall in global demand for premium tyres and a flood of cheap Asian imports into the market.

Production at the site is now forecast to be a maximum of 5.4m tyres per year, well below the site’s 7m peak capacity.

Ms Robison said Michelin’s workforce had proven to be flexible during low moments in the past and she hoped the collective spirit at the plant would help them through the current crisis.

“They have worked through difficult periods in the past and I am sure they will do that again,” Ms Robison said.

“There is obviously a significant challenge here – and not an easy one given the global situation.

“But the strength of the plant is there for all to see. I am also aware that Derek Mackay has spoken to John Reid and been briefed on the situation.

“The detail has still to be worked out with the workforce but Derek has said he will continue to offer support to the factory and wants to be kept informed of any developments.

“I think it is important it is on the Scottish Government’s radar as Michelin is deserving of all of our support as one of the largest private sector employers in the city.”

In light of Michelin and the Scottish Government’s decision to prioritise Dales Voe as a decom hub, North East region MSP Bill Bowman said the SNP needed to do more for the city.

“Dundee has thousands of skilled workers ready to take advantage of increased business to the city,” the Conservative MSP said.

“However, the SNP has thrown a spanner into the works by sending so much public funding to Shetland, a competitor, and creating an uneven playing field. I’m amazed they could do that to a city run by their own administration.

“After the Michelin forecast, it is vital the SNP treat Dundee as a key priority for job creation.”

Derek Mackay has been briefed on Michelin.