Press Release
6th July 2012
Statement on emergency towing vessel being stationed in Orkney
Shetland Islands Council has welcomed the news that a new emergency towing vessel for the Northern and Western Isles will be stationed in Orkney. The Council is also aware that discussion is ongoing between the UK government and the oil and gas industry about additional cover for Shetland; we look forward to hearing more on this in due course.
Responding to the news, Convener, Malcolm Bell, said, ‘We will be seeking early involvement in the planning and implementation of the new service to ensure the best possible coverage for Shetland. The safety and protection of our shoreline is paramount - the memory of the Braer disaster in 1993 still runs deep - and this will be foremost in our thinking as we go forward.’
Ends.