Prospect responds to Cranston report

Prospect has responded to the publication of Sir Ross Cranston’s report into the November 2021 fatal small boat incident.

Steve Thomas, Deputy General Secretary of Prospect, said:

“This report identifies several key failings which ended in a tragic loss of life and we hope this helps to bring some closure to the families and loved ones of those affected. Events such as these also put huge emotional pressure on employees. The publication of this report, which will have been hanging over many of them for some time, will allow the organisation to reflect and move forward.

“As the report states, inadequate resourcing was a key contributor to the incident and demonstrates what is true across the public sector, that many agencies are operating at full capacity and are vulnerable to any stress on the system.

“We are a seafaring nation which makes it vital that all our seaways are kept safe, and that is what the Maritime and Coastguard Agency and its dedicated workforce does day-in-day-out. 

“It is however clear that the agency is stretched to breaking point and additional investment in specialist skills and capacity is necessary if we are to prevent future tragedies given the increased volume of dangerous crossings.”