Sigrun Aasland, Minister of Research and Higher Education, and Astri Aas-Hansen, Minister of Justice and Public Security, lent their ears to industry leaders and union representatives invited by the Norwegian Confederation of Trade Unions (LO) in Agder.
Knut Mjåland, CEO of GCE NODE, voiced his concern for the lack of Norwegian plans to develop marshalling ports for offshore wind. A recent report conducted by PwC, estimates that an Agder port used to develop and build the offshore wind project Sørlige Nordsjø II would create ripple effects for Agder worth billions.
Sørlige Nordsjø II could also directly and indirectly employ 2,100 people in Agder, according to the report.
“This is especially important in a region where many people are not part of the workforce,” emphasized Mette Gundersen, General Manager for LO Agder.
The ripple effects would also improve the finances of Agder municipalities.
“Investments in port facilities in Agder is a key issue for our region. If successful, the effects are tremendous for our workforce, our businesses, and our society at large,” said Knut Mjåland, CEO of GCE NODE.
The ministers were thankful for the input.
“Infrastructure is important, I think we can all agree on that,” said Sigrun Aasland, Minister of Research and Higher Education – adding:
“Agder is a forward-leaning region, and currently the best region in Norway for combining knowledge and business development. Competence is key as people is our greatest asset,” said Aasland.
