Inverness MP Angus MacDonald has voiced concerns on behalf of military families living near Cameron Barracks as plans move forward to house asylum seekers at the site.
The MP for Inverness, Skye and West Ross-shire said he has been in discussions with senior military figures after learning that around 150 families of soldiers from the 3 Scots Regiment, who live directly behind the barracks are facing heightened anxiety over the situation.
While the families will remain in Inverness, their serving relatives are now being deployed overseas, leaving many feeling vulnerable as the site prepares to host up to 300 single male asylum seekers.
Mr MacDonald said the families have already written to the Secretary of State for Defence, John Healy, to express their concerns.
“I have been told by military sources that the soldiers in the 3 Scots Regiment currently residing in the Cameron Barracks will be deployed abroad, and that their families have written a letter expressing their serious concerns to the Secretary of State for Defence,” he said.
“It is understandable that the families of military personnel will be anxious about these plans, especially with the added stress of being left alone as their family member will now be positioned overseas.”
Mr MacDonald confirmed that he has also written to Minister Healy, urging him to take into account the voices of those affected.
“My position remains clear,” he said.
“Cameron Barracks is no more appropriate for housing large numbers of migrants than a city-centre hotel.
“The UK Government should focus instead on fixing the root of the problem by rapidly speeding up asylum decisions.”
The announcement follows growing concern across the Highlands about the lack of consultation surrounding the UK Government’s decision to house asylum seekers at the Inverness site.
Local representatives, community groups, and residents have all called for more transparency and support for both the asylum seekers and the communities affected.
