Scottish Government pledges £25m for Grangemouth workers amid refinery closure

First Minister John Swinney has announced a £25 million commitment to a 'just transition' fund for workers affected by the impending closure of the Grangemouth refinery, which is expected to result in over 400 job losses. Swinney urged the UK government to match this funding, emphasizing the urgency of the situation as the closure is seen as premature and detrimental to Scotland's net-zero goals. The total investment from the Scottish Government for Grangemouth will now reach £87 million, with funds sourced from ScotWind revenues. A careers fair is scheduled for March 6, involving 19 companies to support displaced workers. Additionally, a report on the feasibility of transforming Grangemouth into a low-carbon energy hub, known as Project Willow, is anticipated soon. The First Minister expressed deep regret over the job losses and reiterated the need for collaborative efforts to secure the site's future.