At its first meeting of 2014, delegates of Aberdeen Trades
Union Council expressed grave concern at the lack of clarity regarding Police
Scotland's plans for Aberdeen.
Kevin Hutchens, an Executive Committee member and
spokesperson for Aberdeen TUC stated:-
" There is great concern that no public statement has
been made confirming the future use of the Queen St offices of Police Scotland
.
"It would be disastrous for many of our members who live and
work in Aberdeen if these facilities are lost, especially on the back of the
already announced Court Closures which are progressing apace, with Stonehaven
Court due to close at the end of May this year.
"We have particular concern for the many shopworkers, bus
drivers and public sector workers who daily provide a service to the city.
"While call centres can provide a valuable service there is
no real substitute for the face to face support a Police Officer at a community
based public access front desk can provide.
"Needless to say it is also crucial that front line
investigations of crime should also be pursued from the City Centre HQ. "
Kevin Hutchens went on to say " We are
therefore calling on Police Scotland to confirm the long term future of the
Aberdeen Queen street HQ and all the services it provides there."
