Cameron Barracks. Source: Wikimedia Commons.
Controversial plans to temporarily house 300 asylum seekers at an Inverness barracks has sparked calls from Highland Council bosses for a meeting with the UK Home Secretary.
The council’s leaders have today confirmed that they have written to the Home Office to request a meeting over the UK government’s surprise plans for the Cameron Barracks.
Council leader Raymond Bremner, Convenor Bill Lobban, and Leader of the Opposition Alasdair Christie all signed the letter.
The move to house asylum seekers at the barracks – one of two such military sites being considered in the UK – sparked strong pushback from politicians across the political spectrum as well as counter claims that some were ‘pandering to racism’ – with the announcement catching many by surprise and leading to claims that the government had failed to consult with local authorities before making a decision.
The Scottish Refugee Council has also criticised the move, branding it yet “another short term measure”, and arguing that it highlights the urgent need for “long-term, humane” changes.
Speaking after Highland Council’s letter was sent requesting a meeting with Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood, Cllr Bremner said: “While welcoming people in need and seeking safety, elected members last week raised a number of valid concerns about this proposal and the way it has been communicated. We have asked to meet with the Home Secretary to discuss these issues in more detail.”
Councillor Raymond Bremner, leader of the council. Picture: Callum Mackay.
The letter follows a special meeting of Highland Council last week, during which the local authority’s members agreed to raise a number of concerns and seek clarification over several queries about the proposals.
The letter to the Home Office is the result of that meeting.
The local authority said that the letter is seeking clarification as to why Cameron Barracks was chosen and how the project will be managed “to ensure no detrimental impact on local services”.
It also asks for risk and impact assessments to be shared and for confirmation of any funding arrangements.
The authors also argued that the location is inappropriate for a large number of asylum seekers and suggested regular engagement with communities by the Home Office to address concerns, including a public meeting.
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