A taskforce is working on a plan to mitigate the economic impact of the closure of Longannet power station.
Scottish Energy Minister Fergus Ewing and Fife Council leader David Ross co-chaired a meeting that included Scottish Power boss Hugh Finlay, representatives of local authorities and trade unions at the Kincardine plant.
The taskforce discussed the way ahead after last week’s announcement that Longannet would shut down in March. They will next meet on September 29.
In addition to the 236-strong workforce employed by Scottish Power, the plant supports hundreds of contract jobs.
Mr Ewing said: “Members of the taskforce today agreed to develop an economic recovery plan to mitigate the effects of the closure.
“The plan will support workers to find new jobs, mitigate the effects on the supply chain, produce a masterplan for the long-term future of the Longannet site and consider how to create sustainable employment in the local area.”
Mr Ross, leader of Fife Council, said: “This is a hugely disappointing situation, but I am very encouraged by the positive attitudes and commitment shown by all those attending today’s meeting to work together to mitigate the impact of the closure.
“The primary focus has to be on support for the workforce and the supply chain, but I am pleased that everyone also recognises the need to address the impact the closure will have on local communities and the need to create alternative employment opportunities for the longer term.”
Mr Finlay, generation director at Scottish Power, said: “Morale is not great. Both fathers and sons have worked here. But if someone who has worked at Longannet wants to get work somewhere else, they will have a great chance of doing so because of their skills, knowledge and professionalism.”
Taskforce member Douglas Chapman MP said: “I was disappointed the UK Government did not have a representative at the meeting.
“However, I’ve secured an agreement that they will be summoned to appear before the taskforce if we think it appropriate at any future stage.”