SNP MSP for Na h-Eileanan an Iar, Alasdair Allan, has cautiously welcomed initial indications that the workforce at the Arnish Fabrication Yard in Lewis will not be affected by Harland & Wolff’s current search for investment. The company have operated Arnish since 2021, as well as yards in Fife, Devon and Belfast.

Fresh concerns had arisen this week following media reports that the new Labour UK Government were set to reject Harland & Wolff’s government loan guarantee request.

The company is not believed to be in administration, but it is understood that financiers have now taken over its board and are re-structuring and injecting additional finance into the business, ahead of bringing its yards to market.

Alasdair Allan, who met with the company and with Deputy First Minister  Kate Forbes yesterday about the future of the site, said:

“It is helpful to have a slightly clearer picture of matters, and encouraging that efforts are now underway to secure the future of all the yards and ensure that work can continue uninterrupted.

“I know that members of the local workforce have been growing very concerned this week at what impact the company’s financial situation could have on the ground, so any indications of progress on the yard’s immediate and long-term future are to be welcomed.

“The yard at Arnish provides vital skilled employment opportunities locally, and has been going from strength to strength in recent years. It is a hugely important economic asset for the Western Isles, and has always been renowned for the quality of its workforce as well as what it produces. 

“Following their planned development, the yards at Arnish and Methil are also due to play a key role in delivering sustainable energy solutions as part of both the UK and Scotland’s wider Net Zero targets. I hope that a suitable investor for the company can be found as soon as possible, and that jobs here continue to be protected.”