MSP warns cuts to Coastguard remuneration could put emergency service at risk

Far North MSP David Green is calling on the UK Government to pause proposals to move Coastguard Rescue Officers to a revised volunteer status that would remove their remuneration, warning the changes could put lives at risk.

The Liberal Democrat MSP has joined more than 50 MSPs from across the political spectrum in urging the UK Government to halt the plans, arguing that ending payments for Coastguard volunteers could undermine the emergency service.

The proposals from the Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) follow an employment tribunal ruling that found Coastguard Rescue Officers can be classed as workers while carrying out their duties as emergency responders.

CROs currently receive £11 an hour for attending call-outs and training. However, just months after the landmark tribunal secured their worker status, the MCA has proposed ending those payments as part of a move to revised volunteer arrangements.

Mr Green's colleague, Andrew Baxter MSP, recently raised the issue at First Minister's Questions. In response, the First Minister said he would write to the UK Government to raise concerns about the proposals.

The GMB union, which represents Coastguard Rescue Officers, says the plans are being rushed without adequate consultation, leaving officers dismayed and angry at the prospect of losing hourly payments for emergency call-outs and training.

Caithness, Sutherland and Ross MSP David Green said: "Our Coastguard Rescue Officers play a vital role in keeping people safe across Highland coastal communities. They volunteer their time to respond to emergencies in some of the most challenging conditions, driven by a commitment to serving others rather than financial reward.

"The modest payment they receive for training and operational duties helps make that commitment possible. Removing it risks making it harder to recruit and retain volunteers, ultimately weakening a service our coastal communities rely on.

“That is why I have joined colleagues from across the political spectrum in calling on the UK Government to pause these proposals and properly assess the impact any changes could have on the Coastguard service and public safety.”

ENDS.