SAVE THE TUG: Stay up to date with The Shetland Times campaign

February 22, 2016 0

The Shetland Times Save the Tug campaign demands the retention of the Northern Isles-based emergency tug Herakles.

Emergency tugs were introduced in the aftermath of the Braer disaster in 1993 and the continued presence of emergency provision is as vital today as it was then.

The continuing presence of the offshore industry means the waters around Shetland remain busier and more dangerous than they were in the 1990s. If another stricken tanker were to run into trouble, as the Braer did, it would be potentially disastrous for Shetland. An oil spill could decimate the isles fishing and tourism industries.

Arguments in favour of retaining tug provision won the day five years ago when constrained finances threatened the service. At that time, the Herakles was retained by the coalition government.

But the unacceptable prospect of losing the Northern Isles emergency tug is back on the agenda. You can help make sure that does not happen by backing The Shetland Times campaign demanding that a tug is retained.

Time is running out before the Maritime and Coastguard Agency makes a decision on this vital service. Disaster could strike at any time meaning permanent emergency cover is essential.

Please support our campaign and add your name to the petition. Together we can send a strong message that any cut to the tug service is not acceptable.

To read more about The Shetland Times campaign click the following links (most recent first).