Unite calls for answers on closure of paper plant

A UNION representing workers made redundant when a papermaking firm went into administration at the start of the week is demanding answers on the speed of the closure.

A total of 325 employees lost their jobs when Tullis Russell Papermakers, based at Markinch, Fife, called in administrators earlier this week, with a further 149 positions at risk.

Many of the workers met union leaders yesterday to discuss the situation. The news comes as the Scottish Government and Fife Council held a taskforce meeting to mitigate the impact of the decision.

Workers at the plant said they were recently told their jobs were safe.

Unite regional officer Dougie Maguire said: “Let’s be clear that Tullis Russell directors have serious questions to answer about how this company was so suddenly plunged into administration and the workers want answers.

“This is a heartbreaking situation where the workforce have turned out in their hundreds, shocked, and victims of a hopeless employment law system and a group of directors who didn’t give a second thought to throwing them on the dole.

“Today was also about ensuring our members get the best legal advice possible in the wake of this shock announcement, but it’s small crumbs of comfort because people want to be working, not dealing with this situation.

“Our immediate priority now is our involvement on the Scottish Government taskforce and if there is any possibility that we can save these jobs – we will explore every option.”

Deputy First Minister John Swinney chaired a meeting of politicians, public and private bodies and workforce representatives yesterday.

PG Paper, a husband and wife team from Kilmacolm, have approached administrators at KPMG about a possible deal to rescue the business.