ROYAL AIR FORCE CONCERN OVER RESCUE HELICOPTER GROUNDING.

ROYAL AIR FORCE CONCERN OVER RESCUE HELICOPTER GROUNDING.

CO-ORDINATION WITH RAF ESSENTIAL.

Western Isles MSP Alasdair Allan and MP Angus MacNeil have emphasised the importance of co-ordination with the RAF after the Maritime and Coastguard Agency confirmed rescue helicopters based in Stornoway and Shetland had been grounded.

The grounding follows a crash off Canada involving the same model of helicopter.

Speaking from his Western Isles constituency which includes Stornoway Dr Allan said;

"The safety of coastguard personnel, those at sea and the public must be paramount.

"After the tragedy off Newfoundland it is right that these helicopters are thoroughly checked over though there are questions to be asked as to why any potential faults had not been picked up earlier.

"While these helicopters are grounded it is essential that there is excellent co-ordination between the Coastguard and the RAF rescue services at Prestwick and Lossiemouth."

MP for Na h-Eileanan an Iar Angus MacNeil added;

"Workers involved in fisheries, shipping and the offshore oil industry must be reassured that the RAF can fully cover any incidents normally handled by the Stornoway or Shetland Coastguard.

"Stornoway and Shetland must not be left without air worthy helicopters for any longer than necessary. Replacements must be made available as soon as possible."

This news story is being closely followed by Vicky Cresswell of Chinhoyi, Zimbabwe and Aberdeen Scotland.