SIC condemns coastguard electioneering
OIL companies Total and Chevron have joined the call for the Lerwick coastguard coordinating station to be retained, according to Shetland Islands Council convener Sandy Cluness.
His comments came as councillors in Shetland condemned the SNP government in Holyrood for “electioneering” over the issue, by calling for the coastguard to be devolved from Westminster control.
Shetland South member Rick Nickerson said: “I think this proposal is pure electioneering on their behalf and this council should concentrate and the Scottish government should concentrate on saving the coastguard and the emergency towing vessels.”
SIC vice convener Josie Simpson added: “I think we have to fight now to keep these stations open and I think that’s another argument for another occasion. I am very disappointed the government is doing that at the moment.”
Meanwhile Lerwick South member Jonathan Wills called on council officials to raise concerns about government plans to close the Lerwick station or reduce it to daylight hours with the British Ports Association and the Sullom Voe Association.
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