This item was published during the term of a previous administration that ended in April 2007
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Extra funding for port security
27/03/2002
Fife Constabulary will be given £220,000 in extra
funding for the policing of Rosyth port, it was announced
today.
The new
Superfast Ferries ferry service between
Rosyth and Zeebrugge, which will start in May, will be
Scotland's first daily ferry route providing freight and
leisure passengers with direct access into Europe.
The funding will be used to:
- set up a dedicated police Ports Unit, with 8
experienced officers from within the Force, who will be
permanently based at the port. (A further 34 officers
will also provide support to the unit.)
- provide intensive training for the officers
directly based at the Port.
- provide training for uniformed and CID officers who
may be called upon to directly support the dedicated
Ports Unit either within the Port or on board
vessels.
- provide training for the Road Policing Department
and to the Force Control Room Staff, who will also
provide operational support to the Division.
- purchase specialist equipment to equip officers to
a high standard, particularly in respect of health and
safety considerations within the Port.
Deputy Justice Minister Richard Simpson said:
"Scotland's first ferry link with Europe will
undoubtedly be of major significance to Rosyth and Scotland
by improving trade links and boosting tourism.
"Unfortunately, along with the many benefits which this
service will undoubtedly bring, it could l also attract a
criminal element. We must be ready to deal with that.
"The Scottish Police Service, including the Scottish
Drug Enforcement Agency, are working in partnership with HM
Customs and Excise and the Immigration Service to ensure a
safe environment for those using the service and provide a
cohesive and effective deterrent to crime.
"The funding which I have announced today will help
ensure that Fife Constabulary can equip themselves with the
resources and intelligence to play an effective role in
making Rosyth a successful, crime-free gateway to and from
Europe."