A KIRKCALDY company which employs a large number of people from the Cowdenbeath-Lochgelly area has gone into administration for a second time.

It means that over 200 people have been made redundant at interior fittings firm Havelock, at Mitchelston Industrial Estate, and local politicians are trying to help find a way of saving a business that is reputed to have a very healthy order book.

Kirkcaldy and Cowdenbeath MP, Lesley Laird commented, following 247 employees being made redundant at Havelock: “This news is hugely disappointing for the workers and their families.

"Sadly from yesterday’s events it seemed this announcement was coming. It is crucial that a buyer is found and that 247 jobs can be rescued.

“I’ve spoken with the Administrators this morning and will be keeping in touch with them in the coming days . The key priority must be to ensure that workers are paid for the work that they have already done.

“Once it’s understood what money is owed to the business it’s important to secure a buyer for the site and rescue the jobs".

She added: “There is justifiable anger about the speed of these events unfolding. It is very hard to try and resolve a situation like this when it is all done at the 11th hour.

“A significant payment was due for work on the AECC and I believe that further pressure could have been applied in order to reach a resolution to pay the workforce had earlier notification been provided.

“Now we’re at the stage we are, it’s all about working out what money is due, what support is available to employees, and how quickly a buyer can be found.

“Havelock has a long, proud tradition and a highly skilled workforce and we cannot afford to simply just throw these jobs away. The employees have a great attitude and that work ethic and culture really needs to remain intact. I will continue to work with all parties to ensure that all options are being explored .”

Cowdenbeath MSP Annabelle Ewing has expressed her disappointment at the news that Havelock International, formerly Havelock Europa, a major Fife employer, has entered into administration and announced the loss of 247 jobs.

Ms Ewing said: “I am very disappointed indeed to hear that the difficulties at Havelock, which we have been aware of for some time, have now resulted in the company going into administration.

“Previously located in Dalgety Bay in my constituency, the company moved to Kirkcaldy in 2015 but they remained a very significant employer in Fife with many of my constituents continuing to work for them.

“This will be a very worrying time indeed for those workers and I sincerely hope that a way can yet be found for their skills to be utilised.

“This really is very bad news indeed for Fife and I welcome the announcement by the Scottish Government’s Business Minister, Jamie Helpburn, that PACE support has been triggered for the workers who have lost their jobs and that Scottish Enterprise are continuing to work with all those involved.”

Mid Scotland and Fife MSP Claire Baker said: "Claire Baker MSP said: “This is terrible news and a very difficult time for those being made redundant and their families.

“I urge all those affected to use the help available through PACE and JobCentre Plus and hope that details of financial packages are provided to workers as soon as possible. The Scottish Government must also act to ensure adequate support is in place for the redundant workforce.

“The trading environment has been difficult for Havelock for some time, following its sale last July the hope was for an improvement in fortunes which has unfortunately not happened.

“The focus at this time must be on supporting the staff who have turned up to work to be told they no longer have a job. Ensuring they and their families are getting the financial and emotional support they need is crucial.”