Scottish Conservative Finance Spokesman and Mid-Scotland and Fife MSP Murdo Fraser has used time in parliament to praise the work of Perth based oil and gas contracting firm, Merlin ERD.
During the Labour debate into oil and gas, Murdo referenced the Perth based firm’s success in recruiting new employee’s during the current downturn. Mr Fraser also commended the firm’s Managing Director, Ian Hutchison, for helping the business win the Queen’s Award for Enterprise for International Trade two years in a row
Murdo also called out the Labour party for their confused message on fossil fuels in light of their stance against fracking which appears to suggest the party is against future fossil fuel developments in the North Sea.
Commenting Murdo Fraser MSP said:
“The Oil and gas sector is experiencing serious pressures right now and despite these challenges Merlin has found a route to success.
“Merlin have not only weathered the storm but have actually increased the footprint of their workforce and have won the Queen’s award for enterprise in the last two years. Merlin are providing a number of highly skilled and well-paid jobs in Perth and should serve as an example to the industry more generally.
“Last week’s report from the Bank of Scotland highlighted the importance of diversification in helping the industry survive the falling oil price and it is critical that Scotland takes advantage of drilling opportunities both on and off shore. I would therefore encourage the Government to look again at the potential of unconventional gas extraction in as firms, like Merlin, could capitalise on these new opportunities.”