TIM eMagazine Issue 7 | Page 21

TIM TIMeMagazine eMagazineVol.1 Vol.1Issue Issue 75 to the challenges the industry faces. Global market conditions have had a significant impact on jobs in the offshore sector – a sector that has helped drive prosperity, not just in Scotland but across the UK too. “The industry has always had its ups and downs, but there is justifiable concern that the numbers of British seafarers based in Aberdeen and elsewhere are in decline.” “The skills required to work in the offshore sector are highly specialised, but with the right support they can be transferred into other areas of shipping; and government must act to provide support and funding to to incentivise companies to train more seafarers – who in return will commit to giving cadets their first job, ensuring the government sees a return on its investment.” Scotland’s Minister for Transport and the Islands Mr Humza Yousaf MSP, who took up the position following the election in May, commented; “The Scottish Government and the shipping industry can work together to increase efforts to promote the positive contribution the sh