MSP urges Stobart to rethink depot closure

Feb 12 2009 by Gary Fanning, Hamilton Advertiser

WORKERS at Stobart Chilled in Larkhall who are faced with the prospect of redundancy met MSP Karen Gillon in a bid to soften the impending jobs blow.

Now the Clydesdale MSP had said she will now try to convince the haulage firm to retain the Larkhall operation.

The company announced in January they would shut down in the town with up to 100 jobs affected. All 71 drivers and 24 other staff face redundancy.

The firm entered a 30-day consultation period with trade unions on January 8.

Mrs Gillon said: “I feel we have had a very constructive meeting which has given the different parties a forum to air their views on what is happening.

“I was very keen to set up a meeting in order to hear staff concerns as well as the company’s rationale for the decision.”

Mrs Gillon added: “I will wait to see what further action I can take to assist the workers affected. I welcome the news that PACE teams will be visiting the depot to offer assistance to the workers in terms of seeking new employment opportunities and money advice.

“I fully intend to do all I can to try and convince Eddie Stobart to reconsider.”

Also attending the meeting were Davie McCallum, depot shop steward, and Michael Glen, the company.