Scottish Government steps in to take control of Ferguson shipyard

The Ferguson shipyard in Port Glasgow has been taken into public control by the Scottish Government.

Last week, bosses at the yard served notice of intent to put the business into administration, with 350 jobs at risk.

Yesterday, the Scottish Government confirmed it had stepped in to save the yard.

The Government said the agreement will enable completion of the two ferries being built there for Caledonian Maritime Assets Ltd (CMAL), as well as ensuring a future for the site.

Speaking on a visit to the yard, Finance Secretary Derek Mackay said: “We have always been clear that we want to complete the vessels, secure jobs and give the yard a future.

“I am here today to ensure that we hit the ground running in making that happen and to reassure Ferguson’s excellent staff of the Government’s commitment.”

He added: “It is absolutely essential that the outstanding contracts to build these two ferries are completed in order to sustain the Clyde and Hebrides Ferry Services network and provide vital support for the economies of our island communities.”

The move was welcomed by GMB Scotland organiser Gary Cook, who said: “We must be clear that nationalisation will not be a quick fix and there will be challenges.

“There will, for example, be limits to the amount of privatesector work for which the yard can compete but the alternative to nationalisation was closure and that was no choice at all.”

He added: “We can now look to the future and everyone should do so with a sense of purpose.”