Relatives of the Macpherson family who perished in floodwater in South Uist in 2005 are seeking documentation over the construction of the South Ford causeway.
The road which travels between the islands of Benbecula and South Uist -
With nowhere to go the incoming tide piled over the low-
Relatives said Mr MacNeil, the islands’ former MP, has requested crucial paperwork from the Comhairle in their call for a formal inquiry into the tragedy.
Bid to discover details over causeway construction
16 April 2015
Angus MacNeill -
He said: “It is now clearer than ever that a fatal accident inquiry must occur to establish what role the blocking of the South Ford, by a causeway, effectively played in the tragic events of January 2005.”
He said the transportation committee decision seemed to be based on cost grounds only.
“While that might be understandable, the fact that experts have state that the causeway to be opened by 250 metres as opposed to 15 metres, by implication points the finger at the causeway for the tragedy of 2005 due to its role in closing the South Ford.
Mr MacNeil added: “The families have told me that, despite expert advice and different construction plans, they are not happy that the South Ford causeway remains as it has over the last ten years.
“It is clear now that while people can have opinions and know certain facts, a fatal accident inquiry is the only acceptable route for those concerned and to establish facts about this tragic incident in January 2005.”