Dave Thompson MSP

SKYE, Lochaber and Badenoch MSP Dave Thompson is to visit a leading underwater training centre where commercial diving and remote vehicle piloting techniques are taught to hear more about how students are funded.

In the past, students at The Underwater Centre in Fort William were able to raise the £10,000 - £15,000 fees for their course via career development loans from high street banks but this has been harder to raise following the recent banking crisis. “The courses offered in Fort William are very popular and can lead to a very lucrative career so it is important that students are able to take advantage of these,” said Mr Thompson.

“The banking crisis has dried up one source of funding so I am keen to talk about where else these private-sector students can access the funding needed to ensure Scotland has the number of diving and RV operators needed to service our offshore industries.

Mr Thompson will call the centre on Fort William’s Marine Walk between 11.30 and 12.30 next Tuesday (4th) following a guest slot on the Nevis Radio morning show.