Nearly 100 jobs axed at energy firm

Consultations with workers to start

Energy services firm Aker Solutions has announced plans to cut nearly 100 jobs in Aberdeen.

Around 95 jobs are expected to be cut following a consultation with employees. The firm last night said the move was due to a “change in product and manufacturing demand” in Aberdeen.

But Unite the union said it was “angered and dismayed” by the announcement which came “completely out of the blue”.

John Boland, regional officer of Unite, described the announcement as a “massive blow”.

He said: “This is completely out the blue and Unite was given no prior warning that this was on the horizon.

“It was only last year the company was boasting about its commitment to Aberdeen when it opened its upgraded offices but this announcement demonstrates zero commitment to its workforce. Unite will immediately engage with our members and do all we can to assist them at this very difficult time.”

The move comes after Aker Solutions unveiled an £8 million upgrade to its facilities in Dyce last year to target the growing subsea market and “capitalise on the broader potential” of the global services sector.

The firm employs about 750 onshore staff in Aberdeen with a total of around 1,750 across the UK.

UK country manager Sian Lloyd Rees said: “Following the announced proposals to review current positions across our sites in Aberdeen, we will consult with our people and continue to provide guidance and support to all.”