MANAGEMENT at the closure threatened Caley rail works have been accused of deliberately “weighting” bids to bolster their justification for shutting the yard.

Unions believe there is available work for the site and investment in electrification would allow for more work to be secured.

The Evening Times this week backed the efforts to Save the Caley and called on Government, politicians and owners to work together to secure its future.

The Springburn site is due to close when a 45-day consultation period comes to an end on March 4 with the loss of 120 full time jobs and more agency workers.

Unite the Union has launched its Rally Roon the Caley campaign calling for government to take ownership of the site and workforce.

The union said owners Gemini Rail have been tendering “token” bids to claim it is looking for contracts.

Pat McIlvogue of Unite, said: “Our real concern it there is work in the deport. Gemini has bid for some work but not others. There is a degree of tokenism that bids have been weighted. They can claim they are trying but are adding in costs. We do not believe the depot is making the losses Gemini claim it is.

“Electrification will allow diversification and make the deport more viable.”

The firm denied the union claims and said it has bid for work and is in discussions about more, even though it is proposing closure of the deport..

Nick Fitzwater, MD of Gemini Rail Services, said: “The claims are categorically untrue. In fact, the company issued a full and clear update over the status of several bids Gemini Rail Services has submitted for contracts when it met with the Transport Secretary Michael Matheson and other stakeholders, including Unite, at a meeting on January 23 at St Andrew’s House.

“There is also HST work currently being carried out at Springburn, and we are in discussions with ScotRail about potential future HST work.”

Two MSPs have lodged motions at Holyrood calling for action to secure the facility.

Bob Doris SNP MSP for Maryhill and Springburn has a motion stating the 45-day consultation period should be extended.

James Kelly Labour Glasgow MSP also has a motion calling for the Scottish Government to do what it can to secure the site.