New Pickstock Telford Beef Processing Facility

That the Parliament welcomes the start of construction of the new Pickstock Telford beef processing facility at Ecclefechan, in Dumfries and Galloway; believes that increasing Scotland's domestic food processing capacity is vital to strengthening food security and supporting livestock producers, rural economies and communities; notes reports that the £24 million development is expected to create around 250 jobs during construction, 90 permanent jobs and approximately 40 apprenticeship opportunities, and welcomes what it considers to be a significant vote of confidence in the rural and agricultural skills base, workforce and talent of Dumfries and Galloway.