McArthur calls on UK government to protect coastguard pay 

In a cross-party letter jointly signed by island representatives in the Scottish Parliament, Orkney's MSP Liam McArthur has today called on the UK government Maritime Minister, Keir Mather, to pause the implementation of proposals to move coastguard officers to 'revised volunteer status', which would see the withdrawal of renumeration. 

The proposals put forward by the Maritime and Coastal Agency follows a court ruling that found that volunteers can be classed as workers while they are carrying out their duties as responders. 

Orkney and Shetland MP Alistair Carmichael has called for a debate in the House of Commons to address these concerns, and has written to the MCA to seek a meeting with Northern Isles representatives to discuss the proposed changes. 

Commenting, Mr McArthur said: 

"For a community like Orkney, the coastguard is often as essential as the police, ambulance and fire services. Our volunteer coastguard officers sacrifice their time to do vital work in dangerous conditions, for only £11/hour. 

"Clearly, these are not individuals motivated by financial gain, but rather a desire to serve their communities. The minimal payment officers do receive, however, is important in making sure the time spent undertaking training and on duty is viable. 

"That’s why officers are right to be angry at the proposed removal of what renumeration they do receive. This move risks undermining the coastguard service in our islands, and with it public safety in our communities. 

"That's also why I have today signed a cross-party letter to the UK government calling for a pause in the in the implementation of these proposals, to allow for proper consultation on the impact any changes might have. I also welcome the efforts made by my colleague Alistair Carmichael MP to secure a debate in the House of Commons on this matter, as well as in seeking a meeting between the MCA and Northern Isles representatives to discuss our shared concern."