 |
| Dundee Remploy factory |
Yesterday afternoon, I had the pleasure of visiting the Dundee Remploy factory, to meet the Operations Manager and the GMB Shop Steward.
Dundee's Remploy factory provides employment for 43 local people, most with disabilities. They produce high quality materials, mainly for the Ministry of Defence and also for police, fire services, the Home Office, and others.
There is much concern over the future of Remploy, following the Sayce Report, on which a consultation exercise has recently ended.
I had a tour of the Dundee Remploy factory yesterday. Most of the staff have given many years of loyal service to the company and produce goods of the highest precision and quality. Dundee's Remploy factory must be supported.
What is clear speaking with the local management is that if Remploy Dundee is to survive and prosper, it must now look to bid for work in the local procurement market. To that end, I have contacted economic development staff at the City Council to ask that all support - from the City Council, Business Gateway and Scottish Enterprise - is given. I am most impressed that the City Council's Head of Economic Development has already been in touch with the Operations Manager at Remploy Dundee to offer advice and support, following my e-mail to him requesting support.
Later yesterday, I had a site meeting with the local Housing Officer to look at guttering repairs needed at the Ancrum Place and Morven Terrace sheltered housing and thereafter had a very productive meeting at the Lochee Police Station on West End policing issues.