News / MP backs control room idea
ISLES MP and Scottish secretary Alistair Carmichael has come out in support of establishing a single local emergency control room.
Earlier this week, Shetland Islands Council convener Malcolm Bell and local MSP Tavish Scott floated the idea in response to the centralisation of emergency services control rooms to the central belt of Scotland.
On Thursday, Carmichael said a control room should be set up in the northern isles to coordinate all local emergency services call outs.
He said he had been successful within the UK cabinet in making the case to retain the coastguard station in Lerwick, and a similar argument could now be made in discussions with the Scottish government.
He added: “A single operation involving coastguard as well as the other rescue services would be a good way of resisting any future threat to any service.
“I shall be speaking to the Secretary of State for Transport Patrick McLoughlin to see what can be done from the Westminster end.
“Ultimately this is about saving lives – politics should not come into consideration.
“I fully support Tavish Scott’s effort to highlight alternatives that could benefit the isles. Convener Malcolm Bell’s support in principle for Tavish’s proposal is also very encouraging, given his wealth of experience in the emergency services.”
Become a supporter of Shetland News
Shetland News is asking its many readers to consider start paying for their dose of the latest local news delivered straight to their PC, tablet or mobile phone.
Journalism comes at a price and because that price is not being paid in today’s rapidly changing media world, most publishers - national and local - struggle financially despite very healthy audience figures.
Most online publishers have started charging for access to their websites, others have chosen a different route. Shetland News currently has over 600 supporters who are all making small voluntary financial contributions. All funds go towards covering our cost and improving the service further.
Your contribution will ensure Shetland News can: -
- Bring you the headlines as they happen;
- Stay editorially independent;
- Give a voice to the community;
- Grow site traffic further;
- Research and publish more in-depth news, including more Shetland Lives features.
If you appreciate what we do and feel strongly about impartial local journalism, then please become a supporter of Shetland News by either making a single payment or monthly subscription.
Support us from as little as £3 per month – it only takes a minute to sign up. Thank you.
Already a supporter? Sign in to hide this message.
