SNP working for Scotland's Apprentices

SNP MSP Kenneth Gibson today highlighted the SNP’s programme of support for apprentices as he countered misleading Labour claims.

Mr Gibson has listed some of the actions the SNP and the Scottish Government has taken to support apprentices.  Describing the support on offer Mr Gibson said;

“As we enter the recession it’s time to support Scotland’s jobs, training and skills – not to undermine the vital efforts that are already taking place.

“The helpline number for those apprentices or anyone in Scotland facing redundancy is 0808 100 1855.

“Staff in Skills Development Scotland work hard to find vacancies for apprentices working with skills councils, trade bodies and the STUC and keep track of those made redundant to help them find new jobs when opportunities arise.  

“Trade Unions and Colleges have all been informed of the apprenticeship guarantee and a media campaign to promote the helpline number for anyone facing redundancy, including any of Scotland’s valuable apprentices was launched last month.

“Labour's misguided claims damage those who are offering essential training and support.  When there is a helpline available and publicly advertised why on earth would Iain Gray want to claim that one had not been set up.  The helpliine has been available for some time.

“The SNP, the Scottish Government and all organisations involved in delivering skills and training for Scotland’s apprentices and those people made redundant are working together to ensure Scotland is best placed to recover from this  recession and to emerge strongly when this downturn is over. "