The newly-established Energy Jobs Taskforce is to meet for the first time in Aberdeen today (28 January).

The taskforce will focus initially on maintaining jobs in the oil and gas sector, with the aim of expanding that focus to jobs across the entire industry. It will be chaired by Scottish Enterprise chief executive Lena Wilson, and report to the Scottish Energy Advisory Board.

Industry bodies and cross-government representation are involved in the taskforce, with confirmed members including senior figures from Scottish Enterprise, the Scottish Government, the Department of Energy and Climate Change, Skills Development Scotland, Aberdeen City Council and Aberdeenshire Council. Oil and Gas UK, trade union STUC, as well as BP, Wood Group, Petrofac, AMEC, and Aker are also a number of oil and gas companies which will be represented at the meeting.

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Ms Wilson said: "We've made quick progress in forming this Taskforce which represents a strong and united public and private sector partnership that is committed to working together to support this vital industry throughout these challenging times.

"While current circumstances are difficult, we also need to remember that this is a resilient industry – one which has weathered the storm before and will do so again.

"We have an urgent and immediate task at hand to retain the jobs, skills and talent which is the bedrock of Scotland's internationally competitive energy sector.

"The depth of knowledge and expertise this newly formed Taskforce offers will undoubtedly make an invaluable contribution to that task and help shape support to meet the current and future need for our energy sector."

Ahead of the meeting, Energy Minister Fergus Ewing, added: "This Taskforce, chaired by Lena Wilson, is an important step to ensure that energy jobs are sustained and supported through this difficult period, and is yet another demonstration from the Scottish Government that the industry has our full support."

(JP/MH)