Inverurie paper mill - MPs meet Management and Unions

5.00.00pm GMT Mon 2nd Feb 2009

Liberal Democrat MPs Malcolm Bruce (Gordon) and Sir Robert Smith (West Aberdeenshire and Kincardine) met with management and union representatives at International paper's Inverurie Mill today (Monday).

The MPs met with International Paper Mill management on Monday

The mill is within two weeks of completing a three month consultation over its proposed closure.

The meeting discussed the potential for sale of the mill, the likely time scale for any closure, support for the work force in finding alternative employment and the potential for future strategic development of the whole site.

Afterwards Mr Bruce commented, "This is obviously a very uncertain time. The management will make a formal statement about the future after the consultation has closed.

"There have been a number of expressions of interest but it is too early to determine whether these will firm up and in what time scale.

"The company has welcome and practical proposals to assist the workforce through any transition.

"This is a site of huge importance to the north east, strategically placed close to the railway, trunk roads, Aberdeen Airport and the proposed Western Peripheral Route. We must maximise its long term potential."

Sir Robert added,

"During the meeting we made it clear that we were willing to work in any way that could assist those having to cope in this difficult time. We are keen to hear from any constituents who have concerns and recognise that the future of the mill will impact on the wider community as well as those directly employed there."

ENDS