‘Shipbuilding
AS FERGUSON Marine proudly waved off the latest in a long line of Clydebuilt vessels yesterday, a government minister insisted that Scotland’s shipbuilding heritage is ‘alive and well’.
However, Mairi McAllan admitted that she is under no illusion as to the challenges facing the Port Glasgow yard’s future with many fearing Inverclyde may never again enjoy a similar event.
The wellbeing economy secretary spoke to the Telegraph following the successful launch of the Glen Rosa, having earlier in the day maintained that the Scottish Government ‘continues to stand behind’ the yard, despite no further orders being in the pipeline.
“My view is very much that this is about celebration,” said Ms McAllan, “it’s about admiration for the workers of Ferguson Marine and for the community in Port Glasgow and Inverclyde generally.
“You could see that today with the numbers of the crowds that were here to witness this quite majestic launch.
“I think it means a lot to people to know that Scotland’s shipbuilding heritage is alive and well on the Clyde.
“To see this significant project which has had its challenges begin to come to fruition, and also having the five female apprentices on the stage, was really important because it said, ‘This is the future of Scottish shipbuilding and it’s in safe hands’.”
The celebrations were tinged with uncertainty over the nationalised yard’s future prospects but the minister said ‘no stone will be left unturned’ when it comes to finding a positive route forward.
She said: “Direct award [for smaller ferry contracts] is only
tive of CMAL, said: “It is a welcome sight to see Glen Rosa successfully launched and enter the water.
“This is a step in the right direction for the two dual fuel
vessels, with MV Glen Sannox completing a dry docking and further builder’s trials last week.
“We know how important these two vessels are for the
Arran community, and for both vessels to start serving the island.
“We will continue to work with Ferguson’s to get them delivered as soon as possible.”