SHAMED MSP Derek Mackay 'broke cover' today as he offered his support to hundreds of workers at a Renfrewshire factory who are facing the axe.

Mr Mackay had been avoiding the public eye since February, after resigning as Scotland's Finance Secretary when it emerged he had sent 270 messages to a 16-year-old boy over a six-month period on Instagram and Facebook.

The Renfrewshire North and West MSP has faced calls to quit his role at Holyrood amid criticism that, prior to the coronavirus lockdown, he was still collecting his salary without fulfilling duties such as attending surgeries for his constituents.

Now Mr Mackay has 'resurfaced' after issuing a statement in support of workers at the Rolls-Royce factory in Inchinnan who face losing their jobs as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic.

The Gazette revealed earlier today how 700 staff at the Renfrewshire plant – more than half of its 1,300-strong workforce – will be axed, with Rolls-Royce chiefs hoping this can be achieved through voluntary redundancy.

Mr Mackay said: “This is devastating news for employees at Rolls-Royce, Inchinnan.

“I have raised the concern about job losses with the company and the Scottish Government and, clearly, the UK Government has a duty to act swiftly too.

“The Renfrewshire workforce cannot be sacrificed because of the current economic situation, when the expertise and performance of the plant is not in question.

“I urge the company and governments to work to find a resolution to save the jobs which are affected.”

Mr Mackay's resignation as Finance Secretary came just hours before he was due to deliver the Scottish budget.

He repeatedly messaged the schoolboy, often trying to start a conversation even when the youngster did not respond.

Mr Mackay first contacted the boy last August.

The boy told Mr Mackay he was only 16 but the politician continued to message him.

In a series of exchanges, he told the boy that he was "cute," as well as inviting him to dinner and to attend a rugby event.

After the messages became public, Mr Mackay resigned from his post and released a statement apologising "unreservedly" to the boy and his family.

He added that he had "behaved foolishly" and took full responsibility for his actions.

First Minister Nicola Sturgeon later confirmed he had been suspended by the SNP while further investigations are carried out.

Read all the latest from Renfrewshire and beyond

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