Forth Coastguard Consultation

Advice on how to make a submission to the consultation process

The Tory-led Government has outlined plans to modernise coastguard services by reducing the number of coastguard bases from 18 to 8 across the country.  The Government’s intention is to have just one 24 hour coastguard centre covering the whole of Scotland.  Under the proposals Fife Ness station, which covers the Firth of Forth, will close putting lives at risk.

The Firth of Forth is one of the UK’s busiest stretches of water.

Even by the Government’s own admission, there are increasing numbers of people using our beaches, coastlines and seas for leisure activities every year.

It is shameful that the Government is putting saving money before saving lives.

So far this year, Fife Ness Coastguard station has dealt with 670 incidents.  Scotland will be left with just one 24 hour coastguard station in Aberdeen and one sub centre operating during daylight hours in either Stornoway or Shetland.

The Maritime and Coastguard Agency are conducting a consultation on the proposals which will run until the 24^th of March.  I have made a formal submission to the consultation process to express my concerns over the plans and I would encourage any constituents or local groups to do the same if you are concerned about the Government’s proposals.

To read the consultation document or use an online response form, visit the Maritime and Coastguard Agency website using the following link:

http://www.mcga.gov.uk/c4mca/mcga07-home/shipsandcargoes/consultations/mcga-currentconsultations/hm_coastguard_proposals_for_modernisation_consultation_2010.htm

To make a written submission by post you can download a response form on the website and then post it to the following address:

HM Coastguard Modernisation Consultation
Maritime and Coastguard Agency
Spring Place
105 Commercial Road
Southampton
SO15 1EG