Tug decision must be informed by risk assessment – Carmichael
(Picture Craig Taylor)
Northern Isles MP, Alistair Carmichael, has pressed the government again on the future of the coastguard tug, and urged the transport minister to take proper account of a comprehensive, independent risk assessment of the dangers of removing the tug.
The contract for the Emergency Towing Vessel (ETV) expires on September 30, and the transport minister, Robert Goodwill, has promised an announcement on its future soon.
Commenting after an exchange in the House of Commons, Mr Carmichael said: “The Maritime and Coastguard Agency eventually asked a private sector company, LOC, to provide a risk assessment about the removal of the coastguard tug.
“They did not hold back in their analysis of the dangers of there not being a permanent at sea vessel. Ministers, officials and stakeholders have all seen the report, so to ignore it now would be an act of criminal recklessness.
“The tug is our ultimate insurance policy. Time and time again I have pressed the government on this matter. I have been assured by Robert Goodwill that an announcement on the ETV’s future is imminent and while we await that I hope he is taking on board the widest range of views from the communities affected, including local authorities, businesses and relevant stakeholders.”