Rebecca Smith, MP for South West Devon, joined local Coastguard Rescue Officers for a walk, organised by the GMB, across the Tamar Bridge in support of their campaign to protect call-out payments.
The Maritime and Coastguard Agency had planned to stop the hourly payments officers receive when responding to emergencies and attending training from September.
Following campaigning by officers and MPs, the Government has confirmed that the change will not go ahead in September and the current arrangements will remain in place. However, Rebecca says officers still need clarity about what will happen in the longer term.
Among those taking part were Lee and Gillian from the Plymstock team, along with Pip and Lucy from the South Devon Coastguard team, who Rebecca first met when they visited Parliament a few weeks ago.
Miss Smith said:
“It was good to join our local Coastguard Rescue Officers for the walk across the Tamar Bridge and show our support for the work they do.
I’m pleased the Government has listened and stopped the planned changes from going ahead in September. However, officers still need a clear answer about what happens next.
These are modest payments for people who give up their time to respond to emergencies and keep people safe. I will keep pushing for a lasting solution.”
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