Hundreds of Grangemouth workers staged a protest outside the Scottish Labour conference, calling for urgent action to save Scotland’s last oil refinery. On Friday, protesters placed 400 hard hats on the ground to symbolize the jobs at risk.
The demonstration took place at the Scottish Event Campus in Glasgow. Workers, supported by the Unite union, braved harsh weather to make their voices heard. They chanted, “You said our refinery was your top priority” and “Keep Grangemouth working.” Their message was clear: the government must act now.
The refinery’s owner, Petroineos, announced last year that it would close, leading to more than 400 job losses. This decision has raised serious concerns about the economic future of the region. Both the Scottish and UK governments have pledged financial support, but workers and union leaders say it is not enough.
Government Promises and Union Concerns
The Scottish and UK governments have committed £100 million to the Falkirk and Grangemouth Growth Deal. This funding aims to support local jobs and develop skills. A report called Project Willow has also been launched to explore the site’s future.
First Minister John Swinney recently announced an additional £25 million. He said the funding would help ensure a “just transition” for workers. However, trade unions argue that these steps fall short. They insist that more must be done to keep the refinery running.
Scottish Labour leader Anas Sarwar has criticized the government’s response. He called it “not good enough.” Union leaders agree, warning that the closure of Grangemouth could have long-term effects on Scotland’s economy.
Unite Union: ‘Grangemouth Can Be Saved’
Sharon Graham, general secretary of Unite, believes the refinery still has a future. Speaking to the PA news agency, she urged politicians to act fast.
“We are taking every opportunity to tell the UK and Scottish governments that they do not have long to save Grangemouth,” she said.
She emphasized that the site can remain open. “Grangemouth can be saved, but if politicians fail to act, it will never be forgotten and never be forgiven.”
Ms. Graham stressed the need for urgent talks. She called on leaders to meet and discuss solutions before it is too late. “They need to get round the table and deal with what’s happening,” she added.
Unite has already proposed a plan to transform the refinery. They suggest turning it into a sustainable aviation fuel hub. This would allow the site to continue operations while supporting the transition to greener energy.
Ms. Graham accused the government of “posturing” instead of taking real action. She said leaders must show “vision” and “bravery” to prevent the refinery’s closure.
“Both governments need to take their fingers out of their ears,” she said.
During the protest, Ms. Graham warned that oil and gas workers could become “the new coal miners.” She highlighted the need for a clear plan to protect jobs in the sector.
Scottish Government Response
Acting Scottish Energy Secretary Gillian Martin defended the government’s efforts. She said Scotland is committed to supporting Grangemouth workers.
“The Scottish Government has already shown that we are on the side of Grangemouth and its workforce. We are doing all we can within the limits of our powers and resources,” she stated.
She acknowledged that trade unions are frustrated. “We agree with Unite the Union. We do not want to see these jobs or skills lost to Grangemouth or Scotland.”
Ms. Martin pointed to the additional £25 million recently announced. She said this brings the government’s total investment in Grangemouth to £87 million. However, she argued that the UK Government must step up.
“We need the UK Government to do at least the same,” she said. “They must act to prevent significant economic disruption.”
Ms. Martin also called for a quicker decision on carbon capture projects. She urged the UK Government to approve funding for hydrogen production projects. She said these steps are essential to securing Grangemouth’s future.
Uncertain Future
Despite the promises from both governments, workers remain anxious. Many believe more direct intervention is needed to keep the refinery running.
For now, the fight to save Grangemouth continues. Protesters have vowed to keep pressuring leaders to take action. They say they will not stop until a real solution is found.
The UK Government has been approached for comment but has yet to respond.
For further updates on this developing story, visit Coleman News.
