Fire chiefs have promised to keep the service in Hawick "under review" following a meeting at Hawick Fire Station with local MP John Lamont and MSP Rachael Hamilton.
The meeting, held yesterday, was attended by Assistant Chief Fire Officer David Farries, alongside Chairman of Hawick Community Council, Cameron Knox, and Hon Provost Cllr, Clair Ramage.
On Monday, John Lamont MP also met with the Scottish Chief Fire Officer, Stuart Stevens, and Scottish Fire and Rescue Service Chair, Mhairi Wylie.
The discussions focused on the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service's decision to downgrade Hawick Fire Station from full-time, 24-hour cover to daytime-only provision and the potential impact on the town and surrounding communities.
Mr Farries confirmed that the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service will continue to monitor the arrangements in Hawick and, should there be any detrimental changes to the level of service being provided, the organisation would reconsider the provision at the fire station.
Borders MSP Rachael Hamilton said: "Hawick Fire Station should never have been downgraded, and whilst no plans are currently in place, I was pleased to learn that the future changes will be monitored closely and regular reviews will be conducted if risks are identified.
"I expect community safety to be put first. Local people deserve confidence that they will receive the emergency response they need when they need it most, which requires a 24/7 service in Hawick.
"I am also concerned about the timeline for the removal of RAC and the implications this will have for Hawick Fire Station. Behind all of these decisions, we have brave firefighters who risk their lives to save others. The future of their jobs is also a key factor in making sure that the service is properly funded by the SNP.
"We will continue to hold the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service to account and ensure that any impact from these changes is fully considered."
Borders MP John Lamont said: "I was extremely disappointed when the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service pressed ahead with downgrading Hawick Fire Station from full-time, 24-hour cover to daytime-only provision.
"Full fire service provision in Hawick should have continued and these cuts could put lives at risk, particularly with major new developments planned for the area.
"While I remain opposed to the decision that has been taken, I welcome the assurance from the fire service that the situation will be kept under review and that the service will reconsider the arrangements if the situation changes.
"I also sought assurances that firefighters would not be “gagged” if they want to raise concerns about how the new service is operating."
