Families of Cameron House fire victims still have no 'sense of closure' years later

Helensburgh’s MSP, Jackie Baillie, spoke out at First Minister’s questions over the lack of answers that have been given.

This follows a letter which was sent to the First Minister from Jane Midgley – the mother of Simon Midgley who lost his life in the fire, along with his partner Richard Dyson.

The letter states that, despite the fire having taken place almost three years ago and Mrs Midgley’s constant requests to the Crown Office and the procurator fiscal office, no charges have been brought forward and no prosecution has been launched.

Mrs Midgley has admitted to having been diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder and severe anxiety due to the lack of answers since her son’s death in December 2017.

Jackie Baillie MSP said: “It is almost 1,000 days since this devastating fire occurred and still the families have been unable to get any sense of closure due to the time being taken by the Crown Office to come to a conclusion about the cause of the fire.

“Reports have been submitted by the police and fire service and have been on the desk of the Crown Office for about a year.

“Jane and other family members have been incredibly patient, but the lack of answers is having a terrible impact on their wellbeing. As we approach 1,000 days since this awful event, I am once again urging the Crown Office to show some compassion and provide these families with much needed answers.”

Ms Baillie has worked with Mrs Midgley since the fire happened to try get answers but, to date, there have been no substantive findings.

The MSP asked Nicola Sturgeon to get an update from the Lord Advocate and for the First Minister to meet with Mrs Midgley in the near future, in which she agreed.

Ms Baillie added: “I welcome the acceptance of a meeting by the First Minister and hope that this encourages progress to be made in the investigation so that these families can finally grieve the loss of their loved ones in peace.”