'Hope not lost' for mill workers

Inverurie Paper Mill employs more than 370 staff

First Minister Alex Salmond has insisted all hope is not lost for almost 400 workers at a closure-threatened paper mill in Aberdeenshire.

International Paper has said its Inverurie plant was "unprofitable and not financially viable".

The company has now started a three-month consultation with more than 370 staff at the mill.

Mr Salmond, the local Gordon SNP MSP, has met management and unions to discuss the future of the mill.

He said: "We discussed how to proceed by taking time to look at various options and ensure the workforce can be retained whilst that takes place.

"I am very pleased that the management has not ruled out any options and are willing to look at a range of alternatives.

"Today I feel there is a great determination to explore every avenue with a view to retaining all jobs."

The meeting on Thursday morning, also involving representatives of Scottish Enterprise, lasted about two hours.

Inverurie Paper Mill director Chris Melia has said all would be done to "ensure the best possible outcome".

'Fraught time'

Mill managers have already met with officials from Aberdeenshire Council.

Aberdeen City and Shire Economic Forum (ACSEF) development manager Rita Stephen said: "Despite driving efficiencies and a skilled workforce, the paper mills in the region have been struggling for many years to cope in the face of adverse market conditions.

"The appropriate partners within ACSEF will be working to help International Paper and their employees in what is a fraught time for everyone concerned.

"The impact of the potential closure of the Inverurie Paper Mill on the local community and the knock-on effect to other businesses cannot be ignored."

Lib Dem Gordon MP Malcolm Bruce - who is expected to hold talks next week - said the mill closing would end more than 200 years of history in the town.

International Paper acquired the mill in 1996.

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