All Grangemouth options must be considered but don’t give up on saving oil jobs

Hundreds of marchers are preparing to gather in Edinburgh to protest the potential closure of Scotland’s last remaining oil refinery in Grangemouth. The aim of the rally is to urge more politicians to take a stand on the future of the refinery. When the owners of the refinery initially announced their plans to cease operations last year, there was a lacklustre response from the Scottish and UK Governments, with the decision being viewed as a commercial matter requiring no intervention. However, not everyone agrees with this perspective. Unite the union, which represents workers at Grangemouth, is advocating for a pause in the refinery’s closure to allow for an independent review of its operations. They propose repurposing the site as a facility for sustainable aviation fuel, a product in increasing demand globally. Despite some exceptions, Members of the Scottish Parliament (MSPs) have been slow to vocalise their stance on the issue, prompting a call for a more proactive approach to safeguarding jobs at Grangemouth.

The situation at Grangemouth echoes past campaigns to preserve industries in Scotland, like the efforts to save the steel industry at Gartcosh and Ravenscraig. While Unite has been at the forefront of the battle for Grangemouth, they seek broader support from politicians and the public to explore all potential options for securing jobs. The significance of Grangemouth extends beyond just refining; it necessitates a broader discussion about the region’s long-term prospects. The urgency of uniting to shield jobs at Grangemouth highlights the need for swift action to safeguard employment opportunities in the area.

In another development, Keir Starmer is set to address the imperative of collective efforts by police chiefs, industry leaders, and transportation authorities to ensure the safety of women and girls. While progress has been made in curbing violence against women, it remains pervasive in society. Starmer emphasises the importance of individuals adjusting their behaviour to intervene in situations of harassment, deter perpetrators, and support victims. Heightened awareness and proactive measures are vital in combating violence against women and ensuring a safer environment for all. John Swinney has also championed this cause, advocating for a society where women can live without fear regardless of their location.

The ongoing efforts to rally support for Grangemouth and address the issue of gender-based violence underscore the importance of collective action in advocating for change and safeguarding crucial socio-economic interests. These initiatives call for a united front from both policymakers and the public to navigate challenges and strive for a more secure and equitable future for all.