THE Scottish Government has opened the door to discussion with parties interested in a commercial future for the Ferguson Marine shipyard.
Economy secretary, Derek Mackay, gave an update to the Scottish Parliament on the decision taken to bring Ferguson Marine into public control to avoid its closure while administrators continue to test the market for potential commercial buyers.
Derek Mackay said, “My focus is, and has always been, on ensuring completion of the two public sector ferries at the best value for money for the taxpayer, while also working towards the delivery of the other vessels under construction at the yard, and in doing so securing jobs for the workforce through continuity of employment.
“While the CMAL vessels are being completed, the Scottish Government will continue to conduct further work to support continued shipbuilding at the site.
“The Scottish Government will at all times remain open to discussions with any parties interested in securing a viable commercial future for the yard.
“But we will also explore the option of keeping the yard in public ownership, and how this might protect sustainable shipbuilding on the lower Clyde.
“Throughout this process the Scottish Government has worked in good faith to secure the vessels, the jobs and the yard.
“When presented with the prospect of the company entering into administration we acted quickly and decisively and the yard did not close.
“While clearly there is much work yet to do, our actions have ensured that there will be a future for Fergusons.”
