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Highland MSP fears as many as 12,000 jobs are at risk across region when furlough scheme ends


By Scott Maclennan

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Green MSP John Finnie.
Green MSP John Finnie.

Highlands and Islands Scottish Greens MSP John Finnie has warned that the livelihoods of almost 12,000 workers across the region are at risk when the furlough scheme ends later this month.

Green MSP John Finnie slammed the UK government for ending the lifeline scheme saying that it shows the Conservatives “do not give two hoots about the people of the Highlands.”

Across Scotland Mr Finnie fears that more than 240,000 workers face an uncertain future as a result of the end of the scheme with the replacement initiative called the Job Retention Scheme labelled “totally inadequate.”

But critics say on the face of it the numbers look acceptable for staff but not so good for employers who will have to pay more, which could lead to staff cuts.

In the Highlands, a total of 11,700 workers were still on furlough at the beginning of last month with many more now believed to have been re-furloughed since hospitality venues were hit by additional restrictions.

He said: “The UK chancellor’s decision to end the furlough scheme this week, in the middle of a second wave of coronavirus will be devastating for workers in the Highlands.

“With the virus once again out of control in many parts of the country it’s clear that more support is required, yet the UK government has taken the reckless decision to reduce wage support.

“The replacement for the furlough scheme is completely inadequate and will disgracefully drive more workers into hardship. It’s clearer than ever that the Tories couldn’t give two hoots about the Highlands’s workers.”


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