Jack McConnell told MSPs people would be supported

About 100 jobs have been lost with the closure of a call centre at the Crichton and the Hunter Rubber Company going into administration.

Dumfries' Labour MSP Dr Elaine Murray raised the issue of the two redundancy announcements at Holyrood.

Mr McConnell said the Scottish Executive would assist all agencies trying to help the workers concerned.

"It now appears that around 100 jobs have been lost, with the potential for another 50 if a buyer is not found for the Hunter Rubber Company," Dr Murray said.

"Although I understand that there is considerable interest in the company."

Significant losses

She said such losses were significant for a town with a population of 35,000.

Mr McConnell said the executive would offer any support it could.

"We would wish to support those affected by these decisions and to assist the local agencies who have the responsibility in assisting those individuals but also in promoting the economy of the area of Dumfries and Galloway," he said.