The local MSP raised the concerns following reports that the ambulance service is failing to ensure emergency frontline shifts are covered by paramedics - sparking fears that emergency cover across Cumbernauld and Kilsyth is inadequate.

Reports also suggest that ambulance staff are being offered overtime shifts covering special events or football matches while frontline shifts go uncovered.

Speaking in the Parliament, Cathie Craigie MSP also addressed the huge concerns Cumbernauld and Kilsyth residents have with non-emergency transport - highlighting the case of one woman in Abronhill who has suffered exacerbating problems with securing transport for wheelchair rehabilitation appointments.

Speaking about the issue, Cathie Craigie MSP said:

"I am deeply concerned at reports that ambulance cover in Cumbernauld and Kilsyth is inadequate."

"Our ambulance service is essential to ensure public safety. It is vital that every core ambulance shift is covered across Cumbernauld and Kilsyth. Paramedics must not be diverted from frontline duties."

The MSP continued:

"Labour is demanding that the SNP intervene to abandon their demands for cuts and immediately meets with representatives of the ambulance staffs and their management to sort out this mess. We need an assurance that emergency lifeline ambulance services to Scottish patients are not put at risk by SNP demands for more and more efficiency savings."

"We also need to make sure those patients who need non-emergency ambulance transport are treated fairly."