Firefighters at RAF Lossiemouth have breathed a sigh of relief as it was confirmed there will be no redundancies as a result of contract changes at the base.
In October it emerged that Moray personnel could be at risk of redundancy after a £525 million fire and rescue service contract was agreed between the Ministry of Defence and Capita.
It yesterday emerged that the 29-strong civilian crew, who also act as retained firefighters locally, would all keep their jobs.
Moray MP, Douglas Ross, began talks with the affected workers and military top brass late last year and said the potential threat had caused “a huge amount of stress” for the firefighters and their families.
Last night, he said: “I’ve been told by ministers that they have reviewed the options to provide fire and rescue support at RAF Lossiemouth.
“Given the circumstances with the arrival of the Poseidon P8 aircraft, the correct decision has been taken. There will be no redundancies amongst the civilian firefighters as a result of their transfer to Capita and there will be no change to their workplace location either.
“This is great news for all concerned, and I’m delighted that through continued and detailed talks and communication, a sound and sensible resolution has been found for all concerned.”
It had been thought that Capita was planning to replace the civilian fire crew with military personnel.
Moray MSP Richard Lochhead added: “Having been involved in meetings and correspondence to attempt to safeguard these jobs, which are hugely important, with the local community for many months now, I understand the risk of redundancy has been removed.
“It is vital that the civilian service has a long term future at RAF Lossiemouth and I am looking for assurances that civilian firefighters won’t be phased out through natural wastage.”