The deputy first minister says he is “concerned” about issues reported by guests in the weeks leading up to a fatal fire at a Perth hotel.
Three people and a dog died when the blaze took hold at the New County Hotel early on Monday.
The identities of those who died have not been confirmed.
John Swinney – the MSP for Perthshire North – visited the scene of the fire on Tuesday evening, saying he was “deeply concerned” by the events.
In reviews left online in the weeks leading up to the blaze, guests raised concerns about conditions at the New County Hotel.
Many gave the venue one out of five stars, with several saying they had safety concerns, including at least two who said fire alarms had sounded during their stay.
Concerns raised by guests about electrics
Some also raised concerns about issues with the electrics while many complained the building was outdated, dirty and worn, and that they struggled to contact staff during the night.
Asked about the posts on sites like Tripadvisor and Booking.com, Mr Swinney told The Courier: “I’ve seen some of these points been raised.
“These issues raise concerns, that’s why it’s important that we have a full, proper and comprehensive investigation as there always is in the circumstances where there is a fatality involved.
“Fire death is relatively rare within Scotland, which means that when it happens it’s just altogether and more deeply shocking and has to be properly understood and examined.”
The Courier has contacted Rashid Hussain, director of Perth Hospitality – which owns the hotel – for comment.
He previously said he had been “completely devastated” by the fire.
‘Detailed investigation’ planned
Mr Swinney says he has been told to expect a “detailed investigation” by police and the fire service.
He said: “I had a briefing yesterday from Police Scotland about the approach being taken… and obviously the Crown (Office) will have to receive a report on these issues.
“It’s important that whatever emerges from that is taken forward to ensure that we don’t have any circumstances like this again.”
The SNP politician says other guests staying at the hotel – including Manju Prasanna, who fled the flames with his family – are being supported by Perth and Kinross Council.
He added: “I know from my dialogue with the council over the course of the last 36 hours or so, the council has been on the ground right away to support people to provide alternative accommodation.
“Various other local hotels have been part of that support as well, which is much appreciated, and I think the community in Perth has put in place the arrangements to support those who’ve been immediately affected by this.
“The liaison I’ve had with the police locally and with the local authority, it gives me confidence that everything has been done to support individuals that have been affected and to carry out the investigation that is necessary in these circumstances.
“I saw some commentary earlier on today from a local resident saying that you hear about these incidents and they take place in other places from you.
Perth ‘deeply affected’ by fire
“You don’t really think of them happening terribly close to home, but of course (this) has happened right here in the heart of the city of Perth.
“So the community is deeply affected by this tragedy and we want to make sure that everything is done to support those affected by the tragedy.”
Police Scotland says a joint investigation into the blaze is continuing alongside the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service.
