The UK Government’s determination to close the Fife Ness coastguard station proves it is “out of touch,” an MSP has warned.
North East Fife parliamentarian Roderick Campbell denounced ministers who approved the closure, warning it will leave lives at risk. He also called for responsibility for coastguard services north of the border to be devolved.
There was devastation last week when the UK Government announced that Fife Ness along with the base at Clyde would be closed. The decision came in the wake of a lengthy consultation period.
However, Mr Campbell clearly believes the consultation was little more than a sham and accused the government of failing to understand the importance of coastguard services north of the border.
“The Forth is part of a growing coastal and offshore industry with new developments, offshore renewables, cruises, increasing leisure traffic and of course significant shipping,” the MSP told The Courier. “Despite the UK calling this a consultation it appears to have been a fait accompli.”
With RAF Leuchars also in the firing line, Mr Campbell said it had been a terrible few days for his constituency.
“North East Fife is once again faced with having to battle the UK Government over cuts to services that will have a significant impact on the area’s economy and its future,” he added.
I will be working with politicians, not just from Fife but across the coastal areas covered by Fife Ness. I am calling on them to support Fife Ness as a working coastguard station keeping safe those who work in, rely on and enjoy our seas.”
Mr Campbell also issued a stern rebuke to the London ministers who approved closure.
“The UK Government’s decision makes it clearer than ever that Scotland’s seas and the coastguard service that covers them should be managed from Scotland,” he said. “Instead of allowing the UK Government to shut our coastguard services and risk exposing the safety of our seas we should continue to argue for devolution of coastguard services so their future is determined by those who understand both the requirements and the potential of Scotland’s waters.”
Mr Campbell has now lodged a motion in the Scottish Parliament which notes “with concern” the decision to close Fife Ness.
Crews from the station which covers some 300 rugged miles of coastline have responded to over 1400 incidents in the past three years.