By a Newsnet reporter
The SNP has welcomed the Civil Engineering Contractors Association’s (CECA) support for the Scottish Government’s call for immediate funding from the UK government to boost construction in Scotland.
The trade body said last week that work on multimillion-pound infrastructure projects was the best way to create jobs and drive the economy. The organisation supported demands from First Minister Alex Salmond, who has called on Westminter to release funding so that work could begin on 30 developments across Scotland.
Alan Watt, CECA Scotland Chief Executive, said:
“CECA applauds the First Minister’s decision to focus the Scottish Government’s programme for the new Parliamentary year on securing a recovery through targeted investment in the construction sector.”
Maureen Watt MSP, Convener of the Infrastructure and Capital Investment Committee, said:
“Capital investment for the Shovel Ready projects in Scotland is needed now and I warmly welcome this backing from the CECA.
“If the Tory-Lib coalition refuse to listen to the Scottish Government then they must listen to experts in the field. It’s high time they performed another U-turn and admit their politics of austerity are failing.
“Capital Investment will boost the economy by creating jobs, help get young people into work and enhance growth in Scotland.
“Although in terms of employment Scotland is outperforming the rest of the UK, it is clear that more direct action from the UK government is needed – and needed now.
“This could make a profound and immediate difference to the construction industry at this particular time and tackle the problems in Scotland inflicted by Westminster.”