This article is from the source 'bbc' and was first published or seen on . It will not be checked again for changes.

You can find the current article at its original source at http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/rss/-/1/hi/scotland/north_east/8439812.stm

The article has changed 10 times. There is an RSS feed of changes available.

Version 0 Version 1
First Minister visiting Glencraft Glencraft staff set for lifeline
(about 18 hours later)
First Minister Alex Salmond is visiting staff who lost their jobs at Aberdeen's Glencraft factory for the blind and disabled to make an announcement. Staff who lost their jobs with the closure of a factory for blind and disabled workers could be thrown a lifeline, it has been announced.
The factory closed last year with the loss of 51 jobs, and liquidators have been seeking buyers. Glencraft in Aberdeen closed in November with the loss of 51 jobs and liquidators have been seeking buyers.
Mr Salmond was visiting the factory on Tuesday morning to discuss "ongoing efforts to secure a positive outcome for staff". On a visit to the factory, First Minister Alex Salmond revealed Aberdeen-based Production Services Network (PSN) hoped to help.
Efforts are under way to agree a funding package for a business plan.
The factory had operated since 1843 but closed in November.The factory had operated since 1843 but closed in November.
This will only work if the business and wider community matches our commitment Bob KeillerPSN chief executive
The Glencraft board blamed the city council's lack of support for the collapse. However, the council argued it had tried everything it could to help.The Glencraft board blamed the city council's lack of support for the collapse. However, the council argued it had tried everything it could to help.
Energy company PSN believes a new enterprise could build on the work of the previous company.
The new venture, Glencraft (Social Enterprise) Ltd, would retain charitable status and offer as many former staff as possible the opportunity of new employment.
The Scottish government and partners, including Aberdeen City Council and Scottish Enterprise, are working with PSN to agree a funding package.
Staff were said to be "thrilled" at the news.
'Successful future'
Mr Salmond said: "With a tradition stretching back over 150 years, Glencraft has been a well-respected brand, making quality products and providing valuable jobs in the community.
Aberdeen's Glencraft had been in operation since 1843
"I am delighted to announce that PSN intends to offer employees a lifeline and the opportunity to build a successful future from this prestigious past.
"The skills and expertise of staff should not be wasted, and the aim is that a new business would employ as many former employees as possible."
PSN chief executive Bob Keiller said: "Glencraft epitomises the north east's philanthropic and entrepreneurial tradition.
"We will inject stronger business principles through refreshed leadership, marketing expertise and fundraising support to ensure Glencraft once again becomes a successful and sustainable business.
"But this will only work if the business and wider community matches our commitment."