MSP SLAMS SCOTTISH GOVERNMENT FOR REFUSING TO TAKE RESPONSIBILTY OVER CONTROL ROOM CLOSURES
Written by author on March 28, 2014
Dumfriesshire MSP Elaine Murray has slammed the Scottish Government for their refusal to take responsibility over the closures of the Police and Fire control rooms in Dumfries.
Dr Murray, Shadow Minister for Community Safety and Legal Affairs, said:
“This debate demonstrated that the Scottish Government refuses to take any form of responsibility for these closures or do anything to stop them.”
“I and my Labour colleagues offered alternatives including establishing shared control rooms between the emergency services. This would keep jobs and local knowledge in their areas. However, the SNP Minister refused to even consider the possibility. The Minister also ruled out halting the closures to have a full public consultation with the staff, trade unions, council and local people. The SNP Government are determined that these closures go ahead. “
“The ultimate responsibility for these closures lies with the SNP Government. While they attempt to hide behind the Police Scotland Authority and Scottish Fire and Rescue Boards, local people know the ultimate responsibility lies with them as it was they who appointed the Boards. It is about time this SNP Government and their MSPs are honest with local people.”
