More than 400 workers at the Mossmorran ethylene plant in Fife have been thrown a potential lifeline, with defence firm Babcock indicating it could be open to employing some of the skilled workforce following the site's planned closure.
Constructive Talks Offer Glimmer of Hope
Scottish Secretary Douglas Alexander has described a high-level meeting convened to address the impending job losses as 'constructive and purposeful'. The meeting, held on Monday and organised by Fife Council, brought together the UK Government, the Scottish Government, Fife College, trade unions, and major local employers.
Mr Alexander confirmed that Babcock, a major defence contractor, had shown a willingness to explore recruiting workers from the Mossmorran site. "I also welcome Babcock's willingness to explore whether, in time and if required, they could employ some of the skilled workers from Mossmorran," he stated, characterising the collaborative effort as the 'Team Scotland' approach the workforce deserves.
Political Unity Urged Amid Plant Closure Reality
The crisis was triggered after ExxonMobil announced the Fife ethylene plant would close in February, putting over 400 jobs at immediate risk. The company cited high energy supply costs as a key reason, stating there was no longer a 'competitive future for the site'.
Both Mr Alexander and Deputy First Minister Kate Forbes emphasised the need for political unity in supporting the workers. The Scottish Secretary asserted that employees deserved "unity rather than political squabbles between governments," a sentiment echoed by Ms Forbes, who said any reports of conflict "does a disservice to the workers".
However, Ms Forbes pointedly noted that the UK Government holds the crucial levers for a major industrial intervention, similar to the action taken for the Scunthorpe steel plant, as well as the ability to address the high cost of energy blamed for the closure.
No Viable Buyer on the Horizon
Despite the potential for worker redeployment, the future of the Mossmorran facility itself appears bleak. Mr Alexander revealed that there has not been any "serious commercial offer" for the site that could prevent its closure.
He provided context for the decision, explaining that the plant, which had an expected lifespan of 20 years, has now operated for 40 years. It has been losing approximately £1 million per month and has been unprofitable for five consecutive years, making its continued operation unsustainable.
In a bid to explore all options, the Scottish Secretary confirmed he has asked the UK Government's Office for Investment to help broker any potential buyer for the facility.
The focus now shifts to immediate support for the workforce. Deputy First Minister Kate Forbes is scheduled to visit the Mossmorran site on Tuesday to meet directly with unions and workers affected by the devastating closure announcement.
