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Security fears over Uist rocket range Security fears over Uist rocket range
(about 14 hours later)
The company which runs the Uist rocket range has been challenged to explain cuts in security at the facility.The company which runs the Uist rocket range has been challenged to explain cuts in security at the facility.
Local MP Angus MacNeil has claimed that cuts are being made in staff numbers, hours worked and wages.Local MP Angus MacNeil has claimed that cuts are being made in staff numbers, hours worked and wages.
The range test missiles from around the world and employs over 100 people. It was saved from closure in 2009.The range test missiles from around the world and employs over 100 people. It was saved from closure in 2009.
The operator, Qinetiq, said it is introducing new mechanisms to consult with staff as it moves into the private sector.The operator, Qinetiq, said it is introducing new mechanisms to consult with staff as it moves into the private sector.
Mr McNeil said: "I will contact Qinetiq and the MOD as a matter of urgency over these issues, which do no good to either organisation and also has huge implications for staff morale at both sites.Mr McNeil said: "I will contact Qinetiq and the MOD as a matter of urgency over these issues, which do no good to either organisation and also has huge implications for staff morale at both sites.
"Security staff working for Qinetiq have seen their wages slashed by up to 30% because of the loss of the shift allowance and the flexible roster allowance."Security staff working for Qinetiq have seen their wages slashed by up to 30% because of the loss of the shift allowance and the flexible roster allowance.
"It also means that many now cannot make personal pension contributions because of these cuts."It also means that many now cannot make personal pension contributions because of these cuts.
"It has also been brought to my attention that only one security guard will now be on duty at each site, guarding high tech radar and other valuable equipment.""It has also been brought to my attention that only one security guard will now be on duty at each site, guarding high tech radar and other valuable equipment."
A spokesman for Qinetiq said: "We are looking forward to working with all of our employees in setting up the new Employee Engagement Group. A spokesman for Qinetiq said: "Over the last few months we have been having constructive discussions with the unions to address legacy employee agreements, including allowances, to reflect the current marketplace.
"This forum will have real powers and budget to act as a representative body for providing recommendations and consultation on employee matters for all Qinetiq UK employees in the future. "Remuneration packages, supported by the unions, are currently being consulted on by our employees and we hope to be able to reach agreement shortly.
"This marks another step forward in Qinetiq's transition into the private sector, ensuring it remains competitive in the commercial marketplace and provides its employees with modern employee engagement channels." "The security of all our sites remains a top priority and staffing levels remain in proportion to regular risk assessments."
The spokesman added: "We are looking forward to working with all our employees in setting up the employee engagement forum, which will represent everyone in the company.
"The unions will continue to have a role within Qinetiq although from the end of March the new forum will take over from the voluntary collective agreement currently in place."