OUTGOING Fire Chief Thanked For Working To Keep Inverclyde Safe

TRIBUTE has been paid to Inverclyde’s most senior firefighter who is leaving for a new role within the service.

Councillor Tommy McVey, chair of Inverclyde Council’s police and fire scrutiny committee, thanked outgoing local senior officer Graeme Binning for his service to the area.

Area Commander Binning is moving to another post within the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service.

The new chief covering East Renfrewshire, Renfrewshire and Inverclyde division will be Area Commander James McNeil.

Councillor McVey said: “I’d like to place on record my thanks to Graeme for the dedication and hard work he has put into Inverclyde over last few years.

“He is a consummate professional whose drive and determination to ensure the safety the people of Inverclyde is there for all to see.

“Scrutiny committee can sometimes be contentious and it is true that we did disagree on occasions. That said, Graeme was always approachable and always willing to listen. Any debates or discussions we had were always conducted in a respectful and professional manner.

“I wish him all the very best in his new role and he will always be welcome in Inverclyde. I also look forward to working with his successor James McNeil.”

The role of local senior officer is statutory and the post-holder works closely with the council to develop a fire strategy, provide regular service updates and engage with the community.