Council Leader Supports Opposition To Stornoway Coastguard Cuts

23rd December 2010

Highland Council leader, Michael Foxley supports joint taskforce in opposition to Stornoway coastguard cuts.

The Highland Council is proposing the establishment of a joint lobby group to respond to the UK government plans to close Stornoway coastguard station.

The government plans recently announced would leave the control centre at Aberdeen as the only 24-hour station in Scotland.

The leader of The Highland Council's Administration said: "The Highland Council intends joining forces with Comhairle nan Eilean Siar to ensure that the Stornoway Coastguard Station remains open.

"I have visited this facility on several occasions during our campaign to improve shipping safety in the Minches which led to the arrival of the emergency tug.

"This facility is essential to safeguard our coastal communities, vital shipping, visiting yachtsmen, and the imminent development of marine renewables."