Highland regional MSP demands more from the Scottish Government over HIAL strike action
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Conservative MSP Edward Mountain hit out at what he called the “hands off” approach to the looming strike action at Highland airports.
The Highlands and Islands list member was angered by First Minister Nicola Sturgeon's response to an emergency question on contingency plans for industrial action planned by air traffic controllers in the region.
The Prospect union has confirmed a strike will take place on Thursday, May 23 affecting operations run by Highlands and Islands Airports Ltd (Hial) at Inverness as well as Benbecula, Dundee, Kirkwall, Stornoway, Sumburgh and Wick John O'Groats.
The move came after talks in an ongoing pay dispute between the union and Hial broke down.
Mr Mountain asked the First Minister: "Given the proposed day of strike action by Hial air traffic controllers on Thursday of next week, can you give the chamber an update on the Scottish Government’s contingency plans to minimise disruption to businesses, families and indeed patients in the Highlands and Islands?”
Ms Sturgeon called the planned action "disappointing" and appealed to both sides to continue talking.
"It is of course for Hial to ensure that it has contingency plans in place and I know they are working to do that," she added. "I’m sure Hial will be very glad to engage directly with any interested member of parliament.”
Speaking afterwards Mr Mountain said: "I am deeply concerned by the impact the day of industrial action will have on businesses, families and indeed patients who are reliant on air travel.
"I am therefore disappointed that it appears the Scottish Government is not directly involved with the contingency plans to minimise disruption.
"I think people in the Highlands would expect a lot more than the 'hands off' approach the Scottish Government seem to be taking on this very serious matter."
