Public bodies across Tayside are keen to reassure Tayside motorists that less panic buying at the pumps will lead to 'business as usual' during the ongoing fuel dispute.

The Tayside Strategic Co-ordinating Group have been working together to minimise the consequences of the industrial action at Grangemouth.

The group, which is made up of representatives of the emergency services, local authorities and other key agencies across the police Force region has been meeting regularly to discuss how the ongoing industrial dispute at INEOS, Grangemouth might impact on our local communities.

Chaired by Tayside Police's Assistant Chief Constable Clive Murray, the SCG meetings are attended by the Chief Executives of NHS Tayside, Dundee City Council, Angus Council, Perth & Kinross Council, the Chief Fire Officer of Tayside Fire and Rescue Service and senior representatives of the Scottish Ambulance Service, Scottish Environment Protection Agency and the Maritime and Coastguard Agency.

The SCG partners are accustomed to working closely together and have been considering how to respond to the consequences of any disruption to fuel supplies and any issues which may need to be addressed across Tayside.

Assistant Chief Constable Clive Murray said,

''The Grangemouth oil refinery has been closed down in advance of a two-day strike that began yesterday.

''However, fuel supplies are flowing around the country and localised shortages in some areas are being highlighted while large quantities of fuel, particularly diesel, are inbound on tankers from Europe to ensure continuity of supply.''

ACC Murray said that Tayside motorists could lead by example in the current situation by behaving responsibly, reducing avoidable journeys, and using public transport when possible.  He added,

''We have had police officers regularly visiting filling stations to provide reassurance and to monitor any issues on the forecourts.

''There are one or two reports of some frustrated motorists venting their feelings on forecourt staff but generally the vast majority of motorists have listened to the advice being given and are taking appropriate steps to get through the ongoing fuel dispute. 

''Across Tayside the picture is generally very good with occasional shortages caused by some panic buying.  Over the course of the weekend we have seen a big improvement with fuel supplies getting through and regular deliveries to most of our filling stations. 

''Our priority is public safety, reassurance and business continuity. Local business plans which involve local businesses and industry as well as the emergency services and key agencies, have been and will continue to be reviewed.  They are supplemented by national plans and, like all SCGs across Scotland, we are in receipt of guidance from the Scottish Government and Westminster.  The situation is being constantly monitored and if it is required we would, under national guidance, implement elements of those plans.''