SIX MAJOR BUSINESS PLAYERS BACK GARL

- ‘DAMNING INDICTMENT’ OF SCOTTISH GOVERNMENT POLICY -
- MPs and MSP call for Renfrewshire Council to support reinstatement -

An influential call to reinstate the Glasgow Rail Airport Link has been made by six of Scotland’s main business organisations – and the Scottish Trades Unions Congress.

Paisley North MSP Wendy Alexander, joined by Renfrewshire MPs Douglas Alexander and Jim Sheridan say the move is a defining moment for the SNP. The MPs and MSP want a climb-down and a return to backing economic recovery and jobs in Renfrewshire or the rest of Scotland. 

Speaking about the move by business leaders, Wendy Alexander MSP said:

“Labour has consistently insisted that the SNP reinstate the GARL project and now Scotland’s six leading business organisations have backed this position saying cancellation would be seriously damage Scotland’s economy.
 
“The SNP Government now have the choice – they can reshape the budget to support jobs in Renfrewshire or they can continue to defy the overwhelming view that the GARL project is right for Renfrewshire, right for the economy and in Scotland’s best interests internationally.”
 
“Unfortunately the SNP decision to scrap the project means the loss over 1300 jobs in this area and be a setback for our companies against their European competitors.”
 
Douglas Alexander MP added:

“The rail link would have made a real difference for Paisley and the airport. I am appalled the SNP have scrapped GARL and insist on ignoring the opinion of Scotland’s leading business organisations. This is a political decision which is wrong.”

“The GARL project will bring jobs to the local area and beyond as well as being a vital boost to our transport infrastructure. The benefits to business would be enormous.

Jim Sheridan MP added:

“The impact of the SNP cancelling the GARL project is devastating and will be felt for years to come. I urge them to listen to the views of politicians and the business community who have repeatedly warned that this decision will have significant consequences. They must listen. We cannot allow them to let down Renfrewshire and Scotland.”

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News Release from the six businesses calling for GARL re-instatement

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