Ferguson has always complied with Scottish Government guidelines on Covid-19 and has worked closely with trades unions to make sure there are robust measures in place.  The Scottish Government has made it clear that manufacturing can continue to operate during lockdown and it is permissible to leave home to go to work if you cannot work from home.

Our pipe-fitting subcontractor, HB Hydraulics, which operates a subcontractor office on-site at the shipyard, has recruited additional workers to handle the growing volume of its work on the dual fuel ferries.  Without our prior knowledge or agreement, a group of their workers arrived at the shipyard to collect accommodation details.  During the collection, the workers failed to observe Covid-19 safety requirements.

We are extremely disappointed at HB Hydraulics’ failure in this matter and have firmly reminded them of their responsibility to Covid-19 guidelines.  We have insisted the workers self-isolate and they will not start work at the shipyard until we are absolutely satisfied all individuals are Covid-free.  We understand that although of Eastern European origin, all the individuals have the right to work in the UK.  As a matter of due diligence, we have asked our subcontractor to supply the relevant paperwork.