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Welcome reprieve for Islands Coastguard stations, but concerns remain.
Rural Affairs Secretary Richard Lochhead today gave a cautious welcome to the news that Aberdeen, Shetland and Stornoway coastguard stations are to escape closure, but reiterated the need to push for further measures to protect Scotland’s coastguard service.
Commenting on today’s announcement, Mr Lochhead said:
“I welcome the news that the UK Government has decided to retain vital coastguard services in Aberdeen, Shetland and Stornoway and front-line services are to be strengthened. I am pleased that common sense has prevailed and the Secretary of State has listened to our views as expressed in the consultation and reconsidered these closures. I congratulate the community led campaigns in Shetland and Stornoway whose powerful arguments led to this change of heart.
“However I am disappointed to hear plans to close Forth and Clyde stations remain given the importance of our maritime industry and will be closely examining these proposals and responding to the new consultation in due course.
“Scotland has around sixty per cent of the UK's seas and there is ever-increasing activity in our seas from our traditional fishing industry to our fast growing marine renewables industry. Our maritime industries are key to economic growth and the safety of those who work in the marine environment should be paramount. We still think the possibility of devolution of coastguard responsibilities to Scotland should be considered.
“I am also disappointed there is no update on the situation regarding Emergency Towing Vessels (ETVs). We still have no idea how this vital service will be provided when funding is withdrawn from September, and I would urge the UK Government to continue the existing contract until a satisfactory alternative is in place.
“This situation poses unacceptable risks to both lives and our precious marine environment and a better way forward must be established quickly. We will continue to press for adequate funding for ETVs.”
Contact: Eleanor Stratford 0131 244 2018.
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