Major job losses for Harris

► Contract losses leads to GSH axing Tarbert office

The biggest private employer in Harris has made a final decision to axe its local operation with around 20 workers being made redundant, a huge blow to the island’s fragile economy.

National building repair and maintenance services GSH Group is to shut the Tarbert office - where its back-office administration is based - and centralise all its UK-wide operational and administration activities in its headquarters in England.

Staff are shocked, upset and angry - they face the stark reality that there is no alternative office-based, computing and administration employment in the area.

The redundancies will hit a relatively younger age group and many will now be forced to look to leave for a new life on the mainland.

GSH did not respond to queries today though bosses will meet with staff early next week.

Workers say they suspect the closure was decided some weeks ago and a recent consultation was a sham.

Many are angry that the company gave no advice to staff over getting help in retraining or in seeking alternative employment.

However, public agencies like HIE and Skills Development Scotland have been working closely with personnel.

► Contract losses leds to GSH axing Tarbert office

Major job losses for Harris 30/7/14

GSH’s office is in Tarbert