LIBDEMS CAMPAIGN TO KEEP LEUCHIE OPEN

12.00.00am BST (GMT +0100) Fri 16th Jul 2010

Jim Hume, Liberal Democrat MSP for the South of Scotland, is calling upon the MS Society to review its decision on Leuchie House in North Berwick.

Mr Hume, who believes the Society has a duty of care to its users, is backing the campaign to Keep Leuchie Open following news that the MS Society will withdraw support in November and has lodged a Motion in the Scottish Parliament.

The MSP also intends to visit the house for a second time on Monday 19th July with his Parliamentary colleague and Liberal Democrat Health Spokesperson, Ross Finnie MSP.

Jim Hume said:

"I appreciate that this decision will not have been easy for the MS Society, however, all I would ask is that if they absolutely cannot change this decision, then it's crucial that managers work towards finding another care provider to take over the running of the house.

"Part of the longer term solution is to find a sustainable funding package that will allow the centre to run effectively, and that will undoubtedly involve a care provider who can take over the very specialised high dependency care currently available at the house.

"It would be devastating to the users of Leuchie House if this facility goes and I hope that a solution is found.

"Whilst Nicola Sturgeon has not commented substantially on the situation, I hope that discussions with the Society and the local authority will help towards finding a resolution."

ENDS