Job losses at Evanton-based firm raised in parliament

The loss of 31 workers' jobs in Easter Ross has been raised in the Scottish Parliament.

Evanton-based William Munro Construction laid off the staff after Highland Council transferred a recycling contract to another company.

Scottish Green MSP John Finnie said William Munro was given two hours' notice of the change.

Highland Council said the new contract was awarded in line with procurement procedures and best value principles.

Raising the matter during first minister's questions, Mr Finnie said the 31 workers had not been given the chance of being retained by the new operator, multi-national Suez, or offered alternative employment.

First Minister Nicola Sturgeon said the Scottish government would look into the council's procurement decision.

Highland Council said the new contractor meant material could be processed at a lower price and represented a "better value for the public".

The local authority added that it would work with its partners to "mitigate any impacts" on the workers involved, including ensuring that support was in place to help them find alternative employment.