Far North MSP secures commitment from energy minister to visit Dounreay

Caithness, Sutherland & Ross MSP David Green has secured a commitment from Scottish Government energy minister Stephen Gethins to visit Dounreay and discuss the future of the nuclear workforce in Scotland.

The commitment was made during portfolio questions in the Scottish Parliament on Wednesday and follows a commitment made by the newly elected far north MSP to support the nuclear industry in the far north.

Speaking remotely at last week’s Dounreay Stakeholder Group meeting, Mr Green said he was keen to work with community representatives and organisations to promote the interests of the substantial workforces that remain at Dounreay and Vulcan.

During the election campaign, Mr Green joined fellow Liberal Democrat Jamie Stone in writing to the Scottish Government urging ministers to reconsider their long-standing opposition to new nuclear power.

Speaking in the Scottish Parliament chamber, Mr Green said: "The Minister will no doubt agree that energy security must be considered alongside our climate obligations.

"But that is why I urge the Scottish Government to heed the advice of the Climate Change Committee when they say, "nuclear is essential to the UK's decarbonised electricity mix.

"I also urge the Minister to recognise that decommissioning in Scotland - including at Dounreay in my constituency - depends on retaining skills for the long-term.

"Will he therefore agree to visit Dounreay, meet our nuclear workforce, and address concerns that his government's opposition to new nuclear sends a message that their future lies elsewhere?"

In response, the Energy Minister reiterated the Scottish Government’s view that nuclear power is an expensive technology, but confirmed he would be “delighted” to visit Dounreay and engage with local MSPs and the workforce.

Following the exchange, Mr Green said: “Opportunities are opening up for new nuclear south of the border, but the Scottish Government remains committed to using its control of the planning process to block it in Scotland. I fear that leaves an experienced workforce looking elsewhere to use their skills.

“I thank the Minister for agreeing to visit Dounreay and I look forward to welcoming him to the Highlands. He will find a highly skilled workforce, significant potential and a community eager to seize future opportunities.”

ENDS