Christina Amy Lee and Bruce Adamson

 

 

Announcement comes after SNP MSP and Scottish Youth Parliament protest device at Hamilton Central.

SNP MSP Christina McKelvie has welcomed ScotRail’s decision to issue a blanket ban on the use of mosquito anti-loitering devices at all of its stations.

The devices, which emit a high pitch frequency in a bid to deter anti-social behaviour, are to be removed by Scotrail following a review. ScotRail cited underuse and a lack of evidence supporting their effectiveness.

Mosquito anti-loitering devices had previously been installed at Hamilton Central, Helensburgh Central as well as Aberdeen station.

The move comes after local MSP Christina McKelvie and the Scottish Youth Parliament previously called for the devices to be banned, citing their disproportionate impact on young people.

SNP MSP Christina McKelvie for Hamilton, Larkhall and Stonehouse said:

“I am pleased that Scotrail has listened to the concerns that these devices can cause undue harm to young people especially, and to little or no avail, issuing a blanket ban on mosquito anti-loitering devices at all of their stations.

“The SNP Government has previously written to local authorities and other key partners to emphasise their strong opposition to these devices, and I have also raised concerns with Scotrail about their devices installed within Hamilton Central in my constituency.

“While tackling anti-social behaviour is important, there are more proportionate responses than unfairly targeting one section of society. I look forward to working constructively with Scotrail in the future to ensure Hamilton Central remains safe and secure for all.”

David Lister, ScotRail Alliance director of safety and sustainability, said:

“The safety and security of our staff and customers remains our priority, and we continue to work with all agencies – including the British Transport Police, Police Scotland, trade unions, and local authorities.

“These devices were always only a small part of a much wider effort to tackle anti-social behaviour wherever it occurred.

“A small number of customers raised concerns about the use of these devices. We always listen very careful to customer feedback. Following a thorough review of the use of mosquito anti-loitering devices, we have taken the decision to remove them from the three stations in which they are currently installed.”