More Help 'Forthcoming' For Tullis Workers

Fife council is promising former Tullis Russell workers that more help is on the way to help them find new jobs.

Nearly 500 staff at the Fife paper mill were made redundant when the Markinch paper mill went into administration in April.

A taskforce, backed by £6m of Scottish Government money, has found work for 288 ex-employees so far. Out of 305 training requests, 306 have been arranged.

Fife Council Leader, Cllr David Ross, said: "We are making progress on this and we are pleased that over half of the Tullis Russell workforce has now been redeployed and that a number of people are also now in training or education. The Fife Taskforce is working hard to implement its ongoing plan of action to support workers, the local community and the wider Fife economy. 

"I would like to thank all those from public, private and voluntary sectors who are making valuable contributions to this work.

"Although I am encouraged by what has been achieved to date through the Task Force, there are still significant numbers of workers directly affected by the Tullis Russell and other closures who require our continued support. I can reassure all those affected that further assistance will be forthcoming."

Deputy First Minister John Swinney said: "The Fife Taskforce has focused on action to assist people and businesses since first convening earlier this year. Our aim has always been to work as closely as we are able with colleagues in the public and private sectors to help those communities affected by job losses in Glenrothes and Central Fife.

"The fact that seven out of ten Tullis Russell workers have been re-employed demonstrates not only the effectiveness of the Taskforce, but is testament to the skilled workforce of Fife. Figures like this would be welcome at any time, but they are particularly resonant during Fife Business Week.

"The Scottish Government has supported the taskforce with £6 million and there is still much work to do to ensure this best supports local communities and the wider Fife economy. But the right people are around the table and I am confident that there will be more positive outcomes from the work of the Fife Taskforce."