North East Lib Dems fight for mill jobs (Alison McInnes)

Alison McInnes <info@alisonmcinnes.co.uk>

North East Lib Dems fight for mill jobs

October 27, 2008 2:10 PM

Sir Bob Smith MP, Malcolm Bruce MP and Alison McInnes MSP

Sir Robert Smith, Malcolm Bruce and Alison McInnes

Lib Dem parliamentarians Malcolm Bruce MP, Alison McInnes MSP and Sir Robert Smith MP have vowed to fight to keep jobs at the Inverurie Paper Mill site.

The Lib Dems were commenting after a series of meetings with Aberdeenshire Council, Scottish Enterprise Grampian, and paper mill bosses and staff.

Malcolm Bruce, MP for Gordon, commented:

"There is firstly a need to establish whether there is a future for paper-making on the present site. This should become clearer in the next few weeks.

"Nevertheless, even if there is a positive outcome, it appears unlikely that any future paper-making operation will employ as many workers as at present.

"It is, therefore, vital to ensure that the site is properly diversified. It is an important strategic site, with a rail head and close to the airport. Potentially, with the right type of firms moving in, it could support more jobs than it does at present. Whatever the future of the paper mill, making sure that the site supports as wide a range of jobs as possible must be a key objective for the future."

"I will, of course, strive for the best possible outcome for the mill during this difficult time.

Aberdeenshire MSP Alison McInnes added:

"We should not underestimate the difficulties any potential rescue faces. Nevertheless, it is clear that there is a solid base to work with. There is a talented and productive work force, and no option for the future of the mill should be ruled out."

Sir Robert Smith, MP for West Aberdeenshire and Kincardine, commented:

"The future of the mill is an issue that goes beyond constituency boundaries. I represent a large number of people who work at the site, as well as companies that subcontract to it.

"We should not be despondent, but determined. There is time for a solution to be found. My Lib Dem colleagues and I will be doing our best to help the mill owners and workers find it."