Coastguard Rescue Officers have welcomed political support in their campaign to protect the payments they receive for responding to emergencies after an MP joined a demonstration across the Tamar Bridge.
Rebecca Smith, MP for South West Devon, took part in the walk organised by the GMB union in support of Coastguard Rescue Officers campaigning to retain their call-out payments.
The Maritime and Coastguard Agency had planned to end the hourly payments officers receive when responding to emergencies and attending training from September. However, following campaigning by officers and MPs, the Government confirmed the changes will not go ahead in September and the current arrangements will remain in place.
Rebecca said officers were still seeking clarity over what would happen in the longer term.
Among those taking part were Lee and Gillian from the Plymstock Coastguard Rescue Team, along with Pip and Lucy from the South Devon Coastguard Rescue Team. Rebecca had first met them when they visited Parliament a few weeks earlier.
Rebecca 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.”
