North east public being called upon to have their say over shaping Just Transition

A Holyrood committee is asking the public to share their thoughts on what a Just Transition should look like.

The Scottish Parliament's Economy and Fair Work Committee wants to hear views from across the north east and Moray to understand what support is needed. 

Their aim is to maximise the benefits of the process for areas including public investment, skills development, industry involvement and measuring progress. 

Committee Convener Claire Baker MSP said: “The oil and gas sector supports 65,000 jobs in the North East and Moray, making the Just Transition here all the more significant.

"This area must be supported as it adapts to our changing world, and that work can’t wait.

“The Scottish Government must ensure that there are jobs available for those workers whose industries are transforming, and to make sure workers have the skills and training to take advantage of those opportunities."

The Committee also want to know how public investment can unlock private capital and support businesses to take advantage of the opportunities granted by the transition. 

Other areas include how well the public sector engages with industry and local communities. 

They are also keen to stress if stakeholders are confident new technologies will be able to maintain levels of employment due to the north east being heavily involved with the oil and gas sector. 

Ms Baker added: “New technologies, and initiatives like ScotWind, have huge potential. Scotland can be a true powerhouse for renewable energy. But none of this can come at the expense of workers and communities.

“Any transition will affect people, communities and businesses. So we want to hear from as many people as possible about what a truly Just Transition would look like.”  

The inquiry is open until September 26 and is available here.