Emergency tug deal welcomed

Northern Isles MP Alistair Carmichael has welcomed news that an agreement between the UK Government and the oil industry will allow HM Coastguard to call on specially-adapted tugs to support the Coastguard-funded tug in the event that it is needed.

The deal, the first of its kind, will allow BP’s Grampian Frontier tugs to be released from their day – to – day operations if an emergency arises and her help is required. BP has also announced a  £160,000 upgrade to their fleet of Caledonian regional support vessels as part of the announcement.

Commenting, Mr Carmichael said: “This agreement has been a long time coming but it is all the more welcome for that. I am delighted that BP has put up the money and has agreed to make their tug available should it be needed.”

“Credit should be given to Secretary of State for Scotland Mike Moore and Secretary of State for Transport Patrick MacLoughlin, who have brokered this deal.

“Obviously we shall still have the Herakles stationed in Kirkwall but as it is covering not just the Northern Isles but also the Western Isles having this back-up to call on is most welcome.

“This agreement shows what can be achieved when government and the private sector work together. I hope that other oil companies operating to the north and west of Scotland will follow the lead given by BP and see what contribution they can make.