Unions: Longannet Closure 'A Disgrace'

Union bosses have described the closure of Longannet power station as 'an absolute disgrace'.

Around 1,100 jobs are at risk following yesterday's announcement that the Fife plant will power down in March next year. The GMB union Is blaming past and present governments for failing to provide financial and political support, and for not addressing a difference in transmission charges in Scotland and England.

Jim Moohan, GMB Scotland senior organiser, said: "It has been less than 10 years since Iberdrola the parent company of Scottish Power took over their business at the invitation of Alistair Darling under the UK Labour Government. The plant itself has performed against the background of lack of financial support and of political support which should have enhanced it’s long term viability.  

"There has clearly been a decision taken by the present UK Government against financially supporting the Scottish government to address the difference in transmission charges north and south.  This has led to the closure and the very adverse effects on the local economy.

"A thousand plus jobs will be lost at the station including core workers and contractors without the direct intervention of individuals who have the opportunity to reverse what has been an absolute disgrace."

Grahame Smith, Scottish Trades Union Congress (STUC) General Secretary said: "Today’s news is a devastating blow to both Longannet’s skilled and dedicated workforce and the economy of Fife and central Scotland. The Scottish Government, local authorities and agencies must now continue working with the Longannet unions to ensure that all workers affected receive comprehensive, effective support to find new jobs at similar levels of skill and remuneration.

"Longannet’s closure also sends another powerful message that energy policy continues to fail to address the security of supply imperative. Scotland’s longstanding position as a net exporter of energy is increasingly threatened. The resilience of Scotland and the UK’s power supply network is likely to be seriously tested over the coming years and, by providing reliable, flexible supply, Longannet, will again play a crucial role in keeping the lights on this winter. Replacing this capacity after spring next year now becomes a critical question for Scottish and UK Governments."