Social Justice Secretary Shirley-Anne Somerville has met with UK Asylum Minister Alex Norris to discuss the UK Government’s plans to use Cameron Barracks in Inverness to house people seeking asylum.
Following the meeting, Ms Somerville said she remained disappointed at the lack of clear answers from the Home Office regarding the potential impact on local services.
“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.”
The Scottish Government has repeatedly raised concerns about the use of military sites such as Cameron Barracks for temporary accommodation, warning that such decisions risk placing additional strain on local infrastructure.
Highland Council and NHS Highland have both previously called for full consultation before any decision is made that could affect local capacity.
Ms Somerville’s comments follow weeks of growing public debate about the suitability of Cameron Barracks, with local representatives, community groups and residents seeking further information from the UK Government.
The Social Justice Secretary reiterated that while Scotland continues to play its part in providing sanctuary to those fleeing conflict and persecution, decisions about accommodation must be handled with transparency and respect for local communities.
The UK Government has not yet confirmed when or how many people seeking asylum might be accommodated at Cameron Barracks.
