COATBRIDGE and Chryston MSP Fulton MacGregor has met with apprentices at the site of the £19 million theatre refurbishment project at Monklands Hospital.
Mr MacGregor, a member of Holyrood’s Education and Skills Committee, was given a tour of the project by senior members of staff from main contractor Graham Construction. The firm launched the ‘Graham Pre-Apprentice Course’ last year at New College Lanarkshire, giving students employability support, access to sites and regular mentoring sessions.
While delivering the Monklands project, Graham created 25 jobs in partnership with North Lanarkshire Working, including apprenticeships in plumbing, electrical and joinery trades for local youngsters, supported by the CITB. The company has also sponsored a pre-apprenticeship course at New College Lanarkshire, offering five-week placements for students.
Mr MacGregor said, “I was delighted to have the opportunity to visit the site at Monklands and hear from both Graham’s and New College Lanarkshire about the work going on to improve skills in the area, through apprenticeships and college courses. Having heard previously about the skills shortage in construction I am pleased that there is a combined effort from all stakeholders to encourage more people into construction.”
Chris Macleod, Graham Construction’s framework director added, “Our aim at Monklands Hospital, as well as completing the project on time and on budget for our client, NHS Lanarkshire, is to leave a legacy of apprenticeships and skilled craftsmanship within the industry, while fully supporting Developing Scotland’s Young Workforce priorities.”
