24 Jan 2001
Scottish Coal’s decision to recruit 130 staff at Longannet represents a massive vote of confidence in the future of Scotland’s last remaining deep mine, Scottish Secretary John Reid said today (Thursday 25 January).
Commenting on the first advertisement led recruitment campaign for apprentice miners in Scotland in almost twenty years Mr Reid said:
"The Government’s recent decision to provide Longannet with £17.5 million of state aid is already reaping dividends with Scottish Coal revealing plans to recruit 130 staff. Once completed the recruitment campaign will increase the workforce at Longannet from 700 to 830 and represents a massive vote of confidence in the future of the mine.
"I am particularly pleased to note that thirty of the vacancies being advertised are for modern apprentices who will be able to mix practical ‘hands on’ training and experience at the mine with college study. It is this mix of education and skills that will benefit Scottish industry and allow us to compete on the world stage.
"The injection of significant Government funds will also allow Scottish Coal to invest in state of the art technology and to enhance their staff training and development programme.
"I hope that the faith this Government, Scottish Coal, and the NUM have placed in Longannet will be rewarded with a profitable mine, providing secure jobs for hundreds of skilled and committed employees."
Helen Liddell, Minister for Energy said:
"The assistance the Government is giving Longannet will help ensure the future of this mine. This money is the first to be paid out under our scheme to assist the coal industry.
"This is very important step, not just for Longannet, but also for the wider community. Up to £110 million in aid is available to help the coal industry prepare for the future."
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