The Unite trade union has launched a scathing attack on energy giant ExxonMobil following the permanent shutdown of production at the Mossmorran facility in Fife. The Fife Ethylene Plant, which had been operational for over four decades, ceased operations on Monday, February 2nd, 2026, sparking immediate condemnation from union representatives.
Early Shutdown Sparks Union Fury
While ExxonMobil had previously announced the plant's impending closure at the end of last year, with operations scheduled to wind down this month, Unite officials claim the actual shutdown occurred prematurely. The union has accused the multinational corporation of betraying its workforce and the local community through this accelerated timeline.
ExxonMobil's Official Statement
In an official company statement, an ExxonMobil spokesman confirmed: "After more than 40 years of operations, Fife Ethylene Plant permanently shut down production on February 2. In the months ahead the plant will be fully decommissioned and made safe for dismantling. We anticipate this process to be completed by early 2028." The corporation cited financial unviability as the primary reason for the closure decision made last year.
Union Leader's Strong Condemnation
Unite General Secretary Sharon Graham delivered a blistering critique of both ExxonMobil and government energy policy. "This is another nail in the coffin of the oil and gas industry, with jobs haemorrhaging on this government's watch," she stated. "Unite has said repeatedly that the government should not be letting go of one rope before it has hold of another."
Graham further argued: "Importing oil and gas while we offshore our carbon responsibilities is quite frankly an abdication of responsibility which makes us more vulnerable and betrays workers. ExxonMobil's decision to close Mossmorran ahead of schedule is a disgrace and a betrayal of its workers."
Community Impact and Corporate Responsibility
The union leader emphasised the significant consequences for the local area, noting: "This is an enormously profitable multi-billion pound company and this unnecessary decision will have a devastating impact on the local community in Fife." Approximately 400 positions are now at risk following the plant's closure, compounding economic concerns in the region.
Broader Industry Implications
The Mossmorran shutdown represents another significant development in the UK's evolving energy landscape. Unite's criticism extends beyond ExxonMobil to encompass broader governmental energy transition policies, which the union claims are inadequately protecting workers during industrial transformation periods.
The decommissioning process is expected to continue for approximately two years, with the site anticipated to be fully prepared for dismantling by early 2028. This timeline leaves questions about the immediate future of the workforce and the long-term economic prospects for the Fife community that has depended on the plant for generations.
