Meeting of the Parliament 10 March 2026 [Draft]
I entirely understand the deep emotional connection that Pauline McNeill sets out. That is why I am here today: I understand the depth of sadness experienced in the city of Glasgow about what has happened and, for those reasons, it is right for me, as First Minister, to answer this question today.
In relation to Glasgow Central station, I make it clear that every effort is being made to open the station as soon as possible, but that can be done only when we are assured of the safety of the station. Colleagues will understand the potential vulnerabilities that exist after such a major incident so close to the station.
It must be said that the efforts of the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service, which were explained to me yesterday, were astonishing and avoided the spread of the fire into the Central hotel—as I will always call it—and into Central station.
Its efforts were intensely targeted to make sure that that was avoided. Although the sight is devastating, we have avoided a much greater incident through the skill and professionalism of the firefighters.
The safety assessment will be undertaken. I give Pauline McNeill and other members of Parliament the assurance that that has the highest priority, but it can be concluded only when the investigation has been carried out and we are satisfied that it is safe for access to the station to be delivered.