North East workers to have their say on the Just Transition

The Scottish Parliament’s Economy and Fair Work Committee is looking at the Scottish Government’s plans for the area and will make recommendations on how to best mange the transition.

To do this, the Committee needs to hear directly from those at the heart of industry in the area. These expert views from the front line will shape the Committee’s inquiry and focus its attention on what matters most to those affected.

This includes areas like public investment, skills development, and measuring progress during the transition. The Committee will take evidence from trade unions, skills agencies, and local authorities as part of the inquiry.

The Committee will also look in detail at the Scottish Government’s £500 million Just Transition Fund, and if it is achieving its stated aims. The Fund has so far invested £51.6 million in 24 projects in the North East and Moray.

Committee Convener Claire Baker MSP said: “We know that we must transition away from fossil fuels, for the good of our planet and our economy. But this transition must happen in a way that doesn’t leave any workers behind.

“The oil and gas sector employs 65,000 people in the North East and Moray – and the Government has a responsibility to ensure good outcomes for these workers as their industry transforms.

“A Just Transition offers huge opportunities for Scotland, and everyone must benefit from these – not least those who will be at the heart of driving this change.

“This call for views is a chance for those who work directly in the oil and gas industry to lend their expertise and make their voices heard.”

The call for views is open until 26 September. The Committee will begin its inquiry and take evidence from a range of stakeholders this winter.