Falkirk Council leader welcomes £25 million to spur on 'just transition' for Grangemouth

dailyrecord.co.uk:

The leader of Falkirk Council has welcomed First Minister John Swinney's announcement of £25 million to support a sustainable future for Grangemouth's industrial complex.

Mr Swinney told the Scottish Parliament today (Tuesday) that Petro Ineos' decision to issue redundancy notices on February 5 was "a matter of deep regret".

Pledging to continue working constructively with the UK Government, he said: "I am convinced that Grangemouth can and does have a potentially bright future, contributing to Scotland's Net Zero economy and I want the government I lead to do everything possible to secure that future." Read more: Falkirk Council says action needed 'here and now' for Grangemouth jobs He pledged immediate skills support for those at risk of losing their jobs, working with Forth Valley College to reach all of those affected and find out what skills support is needed.He said: "Everyone working at Grangemouth refinery is a valued employee, with skills that are key to Scotland's Net Zero future.

We want them to stay in Scotland and continue to make their lives here."Mr Swinney said his government was committed to working with INEOS "to secure a long-term and sustainable future".The extra £25 million funding will establish a Grangemouth Just Transition fund which will be available from the start of the financial year "to bring forward investible propositions" over the next 12 months."The aim is to expedite any of the solutions that will be set out in Project Willow report as well as other proposals that will give Grangemouth a secure and sustainable future."Last week, a special meeting of Falkirk Council criticised both the UK and Scottish governments for not doing enough in the 'here and now' to support Grangemouth