Sturgeon hails jobs boost at hospital site

Details on the extra jobs came as First Minister Nicola Sturgeon visited the hospital under construction in Dumfries on Monday.
Contractors Laing O’Rourke had originally pledged to create 160 new jobs on top of the existing 800-strong workforce, but Ms Sturgeon said: “It’s fantastic to see 215 new jobs have been created for people from the region – 55 more than expected.
“Meeting apprentices and graduates today, I saw firsthand what the hospital’s construction means to them as they kickstart their careers.”
She added: “This is delivering a meaningful community benefit, as well as an injection into the local economy.
“With a full year’s work ahead of us until the hospital is complete, we fully intend to make the most of the opportunities this presents to the community, as well as to individuals seeking training or work opportunities.”
The hospital at Garroch Loaning will provide 344 single-bed en-suite rooms, and include a theatres complex, critical care unit, women’s and children’s unit and outpatients department.
The new Dumfries and Galloway Royal Infirmary is set to open in December.