Things that shouldn't be privatised #231 of 652 : Search & Rescue
The MOD is planning to use PFI to privatise some areas of Search & Rescue, apparently because our current Sea Kings are getting a bit old. Hmm... isn't this the same MOD that's blown 4 Billion on two new Giant Aircraft Carriers, but failed to buy the new helicopters required for current campaigns, and er.. search and rescue.
Cornwall County Council is totally against the idea - not surprising given that Falmouth is the vanguard for the atlantic when it comes to shipping problems.
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I don't think PFI would be the best route to do this though. That's just farming it out to someone else whilst paying for it.
When it comes to shipping - why shouldn't ships take out insurance to cover search and rescue operations? It may make them more conscious of risks. Just as in the Californian fires, the state attempting to provide protection and security means people do less to protect themselves.
You obviously don't live near the coast then.
Several things the RNLI and Royal Navy / Air Force have in common in are :
* No profit motive
* No Shareholders
* No Lawyers writing contracts about levels of service.
* People volunteer because it's why they're their - this isn't a day job - these are people who know their lives can rely on the same service one day.
The RNLI is successful because coastal areas and communities depend on it and support it heavily - as for doggedly avoiding partnership with government - sorry - wrong again RNLI has just agreed with the local councils here to provide lifeguard services ( other beaches have Surf Live Saving volunteers ).
Search and Rescue is an emergency service, combining the armed forces, the RNLI and coastguard - the coastguard is the only "dayjob" all the others are risking their lives, not because it's part of their employment contract, but because of a passion and commitment you simply don't find in the private sector.
Besides which there are other limitations - Military helicopters are better specified, better maintained and the crews are allowed to fly in worse conditions - how would you like to be on holiday on the coast and discover that when the weather turns you can't be rescued from a cut off beach or a fast rip tide because the private company isn't covered by insurance for that weather.