Na h-Eileanan an Iar SNP MSP Alasdair Allan earlier today met with representatives of the workforce at the Arnish Construction Yard in Lewis.

The number of people employed at the yard, operated by manufacturing company BiFab, is being reduced as work from the Beatrice contract comes to an end.

Last year Scottish Government intervention saved BiFab from the brink of administration.

Alasdair Allan commented:

“This is a difficult time for the workforce at Arnish. When BiFab was threatened with administration towards the end of last year, a huge factor in keeping it going was the dignity and resilience of yard employees.

“The Scottish Government has been vigorously assisting with efforts to seek out new contracts for BiFab after intervening to save the company from administration. Arnish plays a huge role in the economy of Lewis and I don’t think it’s possible to imagine the future of the island without it.

“As local MSP, I continue to take up a number of issues concerning Arnish, and I always emphasise the unique attributes and quality of production in the yard. I will raise again with both the company and the Scottish Government the need for information which the workforce have at this time.

“I hope that BiFab will also work closely with Skills Development Scotland and the Comhairle to allow apprentices and the training of young people.

“The renewables sector in Scotland continues to expand and there will be plenty of opportunities for manufacturing in this area. Our collective focus has to be on putting Arnish in the best possible position to capitalise on this work.”