The fate of Ferguson Marine, the last commercial shipyard on the Clyde, hangs in the balance as Scottish ministers grapple with its financial woes.
The shipyard, which was nationalised in 2019, has faced significant challenges, including delays and cost overruns in the construction of two CalMac ferries.
Despite a £60 million loan from the Scottish Government to keep the yard afloat, concerns persist about its long-term viability.
The Scottish Government is now considering various options for the shipyard’s future, including potential privatisation.
The situation has sparked debate in Holyrood, with opposition parties criticising the government’s handling of the matter.
Deputy First Minister Kate Forbes said: “The Scottish Government is committed to helping Ferguson Marine reach a position where it can competitively bid for a range of projects and build a sustainable future.
“Officials have been working with the board to explore options to improve productivity and, as previously set out, we are willing to invest up to £14.2m over two years, subject to due diligence and provided commercial standards are met.
“The draft 2025/26 Scottish Budget allocates £46m to Ferguson Marine for the completion of Glen Rosa and to cover the yard’s planned capital investment, subject to parliamentary approval.
“While we are already working with Ferguson Marine to strengthen governance arrangements, we note the Auditor General’s report and expect the board to carefully consider the points it raises.”
Scottish Liberal Democrat economy spokesperson Willie Rennie said: “It has not been a year to inspire confidence in the running of Ferguson Marine.
“A chief executive sacked with the collaboration of government ministers for telling home truths they didn’t want to hear, an order book looking painfully thin and now fresh concerns over poor governance and decision-making.
“In 2025, ministers and bosses need to help Ferguson Marine to turn a corner, with effective leadership and a programme of work to secure the yard’s future.
“Islanders have had to put up with endless delays and taxpayers have been expected to foot a bill for hundreds of millions of pounds, yet still no one in government carries the can – this should be a case study for future minsters in how not to do things.”
As discussions continue, the future of Ferguson Marine and its workforce remains uncertain, leaving many in Port Glasgow anxious about what lies ahead for this historic shipbuilding facility.
