Ferguson Marine Cuts 70 Jobs Amid Workload Gap

The Scottish Government-owned Ferguson Marine shipyard in Port Glasgow is implementing a voluntary redundancy program that puts up to 70 jobs at risk, representing approximately a quarter of its workforce. Chief Executive Graeme Thomson attributed the cuts to an inevitable gap in workload as the construction of the MV Glen Rosa nears completion, with handover expected in the fourth quarter of 2026.

Transport and Economy Secretary Stephen Flynn defended the redundancies as a necessary step to modernize the yard and place it on a more competitive footing. To support long-term sustainability, the government has committed to awarding the yard contracts for four smaller vessels, including two ferries and two fishery support vessels. Additionally, a £14 million investment begins in September to introduce semi-automated panel lines and new operating systems.

First Minister John Swinney expressed regret over the job losses, stating the government does not want to see compulsory redundancies. However, GMB Scotland condemned the move as a betrayal of the workforce, arguing that a lack of industrial strategy and the decision to award other contracts to international shipyards in Turkey and Poland jeopardized the site's future. Former owner Jim McColl echoed these criticisms, alleging that government mismanagement and the demonization of the workforce have distracted from original ship specification faults.