Call for action to protect Alexander Dennis jobs

A trade union has demanded government ministers "urgently explore" options to protect jobs at Alexander Dennis.

115 people are set to be made redundant, after the bus manufacturer announced it will close its Falkirk base.

They're turning the Larbert site into a chassis manufacturing base.

The company announced last year 400 jobs were at risk - but a furlough scheme was agreed with the Scottish Government to protect roles.

An emergency motion will be debated on the future of bus manufacturing jobs at the STUC Congress.

Sharon Graham Unite general secretary said: “The decision by Alexander Dennis to axe highly-skilled manufacturing jobs must be reversed.  Scotland needs green bus manufacturing. 

“Both the UK and Scottish governments need to remove the roadblocks to support the workers and this vital industry.” 

Pat Egan, Unite industrial officer, said: “Politicians need to address how they will support Scotland retaining a green bus manufacturing capacity. Our reps will be making this demand of the first minister, Holyrood and Westminster can’t dodge this issue. They need to bring forward concrete plans which demonstrate how Scotland can retain green bus building.” 

All options must be on the table including direct government involvement in the industry. It has been done before in other areas including ScotRail, Ferguson Marine and Prestwick airport. The question here is whether there is the will and vision to save these jobs and this critical industry.”