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| Forensics plan should be properly examined, says Macdonald |
Aberdeen Central MSP Lewis Macdonald has called on SNP Ministers to consult widely before making any decision to close the forensic science laboratory in Aberdeen or to remove police fingerprint experts from the city.
The call comes after Mr Macdonald toured the Nelson Street forensics lab and met staff concerned about the future.
Lewis Macdonald said:
`It was fascinating to see how important a role our forensic scientists and fingerprint experts play in fighting crime in the North and North East.
`It was very disappointing to learn, however, that Ministers are currently considering a proposal to close Aberdeen's forensic laboratory, without staff there ever being asked their views.
`Astonishingly, a proposal to close Aberdeen and transfer the service to Dundee has apparently been dreamed up by the Scottish Police Services Authority without first asking for the views of either Grampian Police or the Procurator Fiscal's Office in the North East.
`The scientists working at Nelson Street and their colleagues in fingerprints, scene of crime teams and Grampian Police work as a team to investigate and clear up crime, and bring offenders to book. Forensics and fingerprints each deal with over 2,000 cases a year.
`Most people in Aberdeen are unaware of the threat to close the forensic lab, which can only damage the ability of the police and forensics experts to tackle crime. The public has a right to express a view on a change of this importance.
`This service is far too important to be closed on the whim of Holyrood Ministers, without any local consultation whatever. I have therefore today tabled further questions to Justice Secretary Kenny MacAskill, and I am calling for Ministers to consult all those with an interest in this vital service continuing, including the general public.`
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