999 calls: New SNP leader Humza Yousaf 'open' to decentralisation
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People in the Highlands will be looking to the new SNP leader to tackle concerns over the impact of the centralisation of 999 services.
Humza Yousaf, who was announced as the winner of the leadership-race this afternoon, is expected to be elected as First Minister tomorrow.
He has set out immediate priorities, including the cost of living crisis, but the Highlands will also be determined to ensure other issues impacting on the region are not forgotten.
They include deep concerns over the impact of centralisation of Police Scotland and 999 call-handling services which were raised at the Inverness Courier's Leadership Debate.
In reply to a question, Mr Yousaf indicated he would be "open" to the idea of call handlers in particular areas if it meant a better service - but he would not commit to decentralising Police Scotland.
The issue was highlighted through an emotional question, submitted by retired Detective Chief Superintendent Charles Hepburn.
Five years ago, he had to watch his wife die because a centralised call-handler didn’t know where Orkney was, so could not dispatch an ambulance.
Call handler didn't know where Orkney was
Asked about reversing the centralisation of emergency services, Humza Yousaf replied he would not decentralise Police Scotland but added: "If it takes call handlers in particular areas and we think there'll be a better service there – we should absolutely be open to that."
Finance secretary and Skye, Badenoch and Lochaber MSP Kate Forbes – who was runner-up in the leadership contest – acknowledged she had experienced frustration with centralised call handling.
She felt there was a strong argument to make about ensuring that call handling is decentralised.
Warnings and concerns have been expressed going as far back as November 2013 with late Liberal Democrat MP Charles Kennedy being among the first to back the idea of a Highland Blue Light Hub.
