Local MP raises serious concerns over Reliance

February 2008

Ochil & South Perthshire MP Gordon Banks has raised concerns over security firm Reliance after yet another prisoner escaped custody at Perth Royal Infirmary a few weeks ago.

Mr Banks has previously represented two constituents who were involved in similar situations in 2006 at Stirling and Perth Royal Infirmaries respectively. As well as meetings with the affected constituents, Mr Banks also met with representatives of Reliance and contacted Ministers at the time.

Mr Banks said - “After the incidents in 2006 I sought to ensure that procedures were in place at Reliance to avoid a repeat of such incidents. It is very disappointing that these incidents are still occurring and I suppose in some way we can consider ourselves lucky that these incidents have not had more serious outcomes.”

“Although that does not detract from the trauma and distress that is brought upon people when confronted by an escaped prisoner.”

“If lessons have not been learned from earlier instances then this displays an unacceptable level of awareness on Reliance’s behalf. If training is the issue then it is the company’s responsibility to ensure that officers are aware of the processes in situations such as a hospital visit.”

“I am amazed that in just under two years we have seen three almost identical incidents take place at hospitals in Stirling and Perth. Serious questions must be raised about Reliance’s competence to deal with a situation where a prisoner requires to visit hospital. The company must take responsibility for its actions and look to improve its service in these situations drastically.”

“The fact that these incidents continue to occur in Scotland means that the public does not have the faith in Reliance that it should have.