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Jim Tolson - Press Release

12 Jan 2007
Tolson calls for halt in decision to close Dunfermline and Rosyth Fire Stations

Following news that Fife’s Firemaster is proposing the closure of Dunfermline and Rosyth Fire Stations the Lib Dems are calling for full public consultation before any decisions are made.

The Firemaster is proposing that the two stations be replaced by a new station at Pitreavie Industrial Estate.

Councillor Jim Tolson, Scottish Parliament Spokesperson for Dunfermline West, is concerned that Labour run Fife Council may rail road through the proposals without allowing the public any say.

Jim Tolson said, “We need to make our Fire service and facilities fit for the 21st Century but I am determined that we do not rush headlong into a decision in the next couple of weeks.

“We need time to scrutinise the proposals and get the views of local people on an issue that will cause much anxiety.

“I am concerned that the Firemaster is proposing a reduction in the number of Fire Tenders available for the area by one, with new equipment being an amalgamation of a pump and ladder unit. However, having spoken with Fire Brigade Union reps after they feel the new unit will only be about 90% as efficient as the present individual units. The unions are also concerned about the reduction in the number of Fife Fighters for West Fife.

“The proposals will also mean that most of the West Fife Villages, southern parts of Rosyth and parts of Dunfermline north of the railway line will see longer response times.

“I feel that there are gaps in the Firemaster’s proposals such as the details of how the scoring system he outlined pertained to the various options.

“I am calling on the Firemaster and Labour run Fife Council to halt the report going to the Committee until these serious points have been addressed.

“The proposals are due to before Fife Council’s Community Safety Committee later this month with a recommendation from officials to approve the Firemaster’s proposal.