The new energy jobs taskforce, launched by First Minister Nicola Sturgeon earlier this month in response to tumbling oil prices, will meet for the first time in Aberdeen today.
Chaired by Scottish Enterprise (SE) chief executive Lena Wilson, it will focus on jobs across the entire energy industry but with an initial emphasis on the oil and gas sector.
Membership includes industry bodies and commercial interests as well as cross-government representation.
Confirmed members include senior representatives from SE/Highlands and Islands Enterprise, the Scottish Government, Skills Development Scotland, the Scottish Funding Council, Aberdeen City Council, Aberdeenshire Council, the Scottish Trades Union Congress, Oil and Gas UK, Scottish Engineering, the Oil and Gas Authority, the Department of Energy and Climate Change, Aberdeen and Grampian Chamber of Commerce and Opito.
They are joined by representatives from firms including Schlumberger, BP, Taqa, Aker Solutions, Amec, Petrofac, Ace Winches, Global Energy Group and Spex Offshore.
Ms Wilson said: “We’ve made quick progress in forming this taskforce, which represents a strong and united public and private sector partnership that is committed to working together to support this vital industry throughout these challenging times.
“While current circumstances are difficult, we also need to remember that this is a resilient industry – one which has weathered the storm before and will do so again.
“We have an urgent and immediate task at hand to retain the jobs, skills and talent which is the bedrock of Scotland’s internationally competitive energy sector.
“The depth of knowledge and expertise this newly formed taskforce offers will undoubtedly make an invaluable contribution to that task and help shape support to meet the current and future need for our energy sector.”
Energy Minister Fergus Ewing added: “This taskforce…is an important step to ensure that energy jobs are sustained and supported through this difficult period.”
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