Wishart quizzes FM on HIAL strike

Scottish Liberal Democrat and Shetland’s MSP, Beatrice Wishart, has today questioned the First Minister on the action of the Scottish Government in light of the Highlands and Islands Airports Ltd (HIAL) strikes. HIAL is wholly owned by the Scottish Government.

Wishart highlighted that NHS Shetland patients have had to have appointments on the Scottish mainland rearranged. Airports across the region have been closed and flights reduced with Sumburgh airport closed since Tuesday (21st February).

HIAL workers are striking over pay and have rejected suggested offers to date. More strikes are due at Sumburgh Airport on 8th and 9th March.

The First Minister stated that discussions were ongoing to resolve strikes and NHS boards were working to minimise disruption.

Ms Wishart asked the First Minister:

“Strike action across the Highlands and Islands network has seen airports, including Sumburgh, closed since Tuesday.

“Shetland patients with hospital appointments on the Scottish Mainland this week have had to have these rearranged, resulting in delays to treatment and using up precious time and resource within the NHS.

“HIAL is wholly owned by Scottish ministers, so what is the First Minister going to do to secure a resolution and end this disruption to what are lifeline air services?”

After the question session Ms Wishart said:

“HIAL workers have the right to strike and I appreciate that the decision to strike is not an easy one.

“Our NHS is stretched following financial pressures and recovery from Covid.

“NHS resources should be focused on the day to day care and treatment of patients, not further burdened with rearranging appointments for factors outwith the control of patients, but within the gift of the Scottish Government to help resolve.

“Resolving this dispute is vital for our lifeline service.”