The SNP wants to see the devolution of power over coastguards to the Scottish Parliament.
Western Isles MP Angus MacNeil, who has called for the devolution of coastguards in the past, has said doing so will lift the threat of closures to a number of Scottish coastguard centres because of UK government cuts and back the recommendations of the UK wide Coastguard SOS pressure group who have stated that powers over the coastguard must be handed to Scotland rather than left with the UK Government.
In December 2010 the UK Government announced proposals for HM Coastguard with the intention to reduce the UK’s eighteen Maritime Rescue Co-ordination Centres to just two centres. Recent figures show critical levels of understaffing across Scotland and the worst affected area in the UK was Aberdeen – which had 97% of shifts in September failing to meet the agreed minimum risk assessed level of workers.
The Scottish Government has called for full responsibility for maritime transport in its submission to the Smith Commission, which would enable Scotland to shape the future role of the Maritime and Coastguard Agency and take responsibility for coastguard functions.
Commenting, Angus MacNeil MP said:
“We now have a situation where UK government cuts are putting lives in danger- we need to devolve the responsibility for our coastguard so we get the protection we need.
“The report published by Coastguard SOS states that if the UK Government is not prepared to stop the closure plan, the devolved Governments of Scotland and Wales should be given the opportunity to enter into discussions with a view to taking over localised responsibilities.
“Along with responsibilities for the operation of the Northern Lighthouse Board, devolving the powers would provide a joined–up approach to shipping and harbours policies and enhance confidence and job creation incentives in sectors such as renewables, fishing and oil and gas.
“I will be seeking a debate in Parliament to highlight the desperate situation. Scotland’s coastguard services are poorly served by Westminster, and it is no wonder that experts from the SOS Coastguard campaign recognise the need for responsibility in this area to be held by the Scottish Government.”
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