MSP PRAISES EFFORT TO TACKLE LANDSLIDE IN BURNMOUTH

2.00.00pm GMT Tue 5th Jan 2010

Jim Hume MSP, Liberal Democrat MSP for the South of Scotland, today commented on news that a landslide occurred in Burnmouth over the holiday period.

The MSP and his colleagues paid tribute to the clear up effort made so far which have taken place in spite of the sustained severe weather conditions.

Jim Hume MSP said:

"The landslip happened just opposite the harbour and Scottish Borders Council has now cleared the road, so safe access in and out for local people should be possible.

"I understand that the Council may attempt to clear remaining debris and put safety netting in place, but this effort could be hampered by the weather conditions. Certainly it would be reassuring to have netting installed as a preventative measure.

"Thankfully no one was caught up in the landslide and there were no accidents. The Council does however have an emergency social services number for anyone stranded or in need of assistance in the home which is 01896 752111."

Michael Moore, MP for Berwickshire, Roxburgh and Selkirk added:

"Since the landslide SBC and our local emergency services have been working hard to ensure that the roads affected by this landslide are passable, but it is clear that current weather conditions are likely to hamper efforts to remove the debris that remains.

"Although in the longer term SBC needs to consider what steps can be taken to reduce the likelihood of this happening again in future, our short term priority must be to ensure that people in the area are offered all the support they need."

Local Councillor and Executive Member for Social Work Services, David Raw, commented:

"I pay tribute to Care Workers who have battled on through terrible conditions to help the elderly, and also Technical Services staff who have far exceeded their normal jobs to help vulnerable individuals in need."

ENDS