Scottish Government fears Highlands may pay Inverness asylum seeker services costs after minister Alex Norris failed to offer ‘reassurance’ over ‘health, policing and other local services’
The Scottish Government fears that the costs of “health, policing and other local services” related to placing 300 asylum seekers in Inverness could be shouldered by the Highlands.
It comes after a meeting between UK asylum minister Alex Norris and social justice secretary Shirley-Anne Somerville left her with “unanswered questions” over the plan.
Last week, news broke through the media that the Home Office planned to locate 300 single male asylum seekers at Cameron Barracks in Inverness.
Fears have been mounting about the provision and financing of services amid a severe lack of clarity from the Home Office.
Yesterday, Inverness and Nairn MSP Fergus Ewing called on the Scottish Government to come out against the scheme - something it has so far failed to do.
Those concerns were deepened after the Secretary of State for Scotland Douglas Alexander reportedly indicated there would be no new funding.
The government failed to inform local elected representatives, no formal announcement was made, and local bodies were informed a day in advance.
Ms Somerville had been aware of the move since September 17 and sought a meeting with Mr Norris, which only took place today.
After meeting with Mr Norris on the use of Cameron Barracks, Ms Somerville claims she is not much better informed.
“I was disappointed to still be left with unanswered questions following a meeting with Alex Norris on the Home Office’s plans to use Cameron Barracks to house people seeking asylum,” she said.
“I have asked for urgent clarification from the UK government on the impact on health, policing and other local services as we have not received the reassurances needed that there won’t be an increase in costs for services in the area.
“The Home Office must provide urgent clarity to stop the spread of disinformation amongst communities in Inverness.
“Scotland welcomes refugees and people seeking asylum but it is vital that the Home Office provides clear communication and reassurances on the impact on local services.”