Ambulances are in need of urgent funds

Sir,

The recent announcement by Connectivity Secretary Fergus Ewing of plans to build up to 70 new telecommunications masts in Argyll and the Isles is of concern to the Scottish taxpayer.

An investment of £25 million in mobile connectivity should raise questions as to this government’s priorities.

Moreover, these masts are not about connecting remote communities.

They are ‘infilling’ to cover any potential blackspots and the question should be asked as to whether this huge amount of money could have been better spent.

I would urge your readers to email their MSPs to ask serious questions regarding why their money is being used to ensure 100 per cent mobile coverage when we have many other issues in the Highlands, not least the lack of funding within the NHS.

As a former member of the ambulance service, I am acutely aware of the limited resources that are at the forefront of emergency care.

These lack of resources do not include a need for 100 per cent mobile coverage or 4G but are more about maintaining vehicles with mileages equivalent to the distance needed to get to the moon.

Creaking and unsanitary conditions are present in ambulances because they are so old. It is not unusual for vehicles to break down. Some essential equipment therein is almost at the point of being unusable. Only the very hard work of ambulance staff keep these on the road at all.

Have a good look at an ambulance next time you can and think about where that £25 million should really go.

Nicholas MacIneskar, Barrahormaid Farm, Tayvallich.