East Lothian MP Fiona O’Donnell has expressed anger about the Tory-led government’s decision to close the Forth Coastguard station. 
Under the initial plans, the government proposed to have one 24 hour centre in Aberdeen and one subcentre in either Stornoway or the Shetlands.
Yesterday the government announced it is to retain the stations in Aberdeen, Stornoway and the Shetlands but go ahead with the closures of Clyde and Forth.
Fiona said:
“This decision shows a complete disregard for public safety and will put lives at risk.
“The government’s decision to close Forth was about saving money not improving safety.
“The consultation process has been a complete shambles from start to finish.
“I asked if the Minister had taken the time to visit Fife Ness during the consultation – but he failed to answer.
“I previously tabled a written parliamentary question about unfilled vacancies at the station and I was alarmed by the number given.
“This suggests that the decision to close Forth was taken before the end of the consultation and that the station was being wound down.
“I am clear that Ministers must now carry out a full risk assessment on the closure of Forth so that the safety implications can be properly examined.
“Safety in the Firth of Forth must be the priority.”
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