North East oil and gas industry to have say on Just Transition inquiry

The Scottish Parliament’s Economy and Fair Work Committee is to take soundings from the North East oil and gas industry workforce ahead of its inquiry into a Just Transition for the area.

Starting on 26 September, stakeholders will be able to give their recommendations on how to adopt green energy.

Given their front-line experience, the committee is keen to ensure the voices of the people affected are heard.

Areas of interest include public investment, upskilling and how to monitor progress.

The inquiry and evidence gathering from trade unions, skills agencies and local authorities will begin this winter.

Committee convener Claire Baker said: “We know that we must transition away from fossil fuels, for the good of our planet and our economy. But this transition must happen in a way that doesn’t leave any workers behind.

“The oil and gas sector employs 65,000 people in the North East and Moray – and the Government has a responsibility to ensure good outcomes for these workers as their industry transforms.”       

The committee will also examine the efficiency of the Scottish Government’s £500m Just Transition Fund, which has already invested in over 20 projects across the North East and Moray.

Up-to-date, funded studies include Skills Passport by training firm OPITO, which looks to develop a digital offshore energy skills support to support the transition of skills and jobs within the changing industry.

The Just Transition Fund was part of the shared policy programme in the Bute House Agreement. It aims to help the economy diversify away from carbon-intensive industries and centre on the opportunities net zero will offer.