Alison Hume

Interpretation of what constitutes “a structure” in terms of undertaking a rescue ought to be defined expansively.

If anything, the additional functions of Section 4 of the SI infer a requirement to prepare and plan for subsurface operations, and therefore “structures” should be interpreted, not only to include an edifice or building, but any manmade or engineered construction which ought to include a descending structure such as a mine shaft.

I considered that if there was less liability protection for The Fire Service that ought to be a matter to be addressed by consultation and negotiation.

The ability of Strathclyde Fire and Rescue Service to deploy specialist rescue organisations should be seen as a valuable complementary resource.

However in my view the primary rescue functions of Strathclyde Fire and Rescue Service should not be delegated except in exceptional circumstances.

Although this incident was unique in the experience of the local fire and rescue services it should not have been one for which there had been no preplanning.