Security firm's duties extended

Reliance is being given more escort responsibilities

A private security firm which released 12 prisoners in error in Scotland is to begin escort duties in the Highland and Grampian areas.

The Scottish Prison Service said Reliance had undergone a robust assessment to ensure it is ready to take on the extra work.

Reliance staff have been shadowing police, prison and court workers.

They have been familiarising themselves with the layout of 21 Sheriff and 21 District courts.

Reliance already operates in Strathclyde, Dumfries and Galloway, Central, and Lothian and the Borders.

Justice Minister Cathy Jamieson ordered a report into the troubled security firm following a number of high-profile mistakes.

Performance improved

Audit Scotland said in September that Reliance had improved its performance since beginning escort duties in April.

Auditor General Robert Black found that 98% of prisoners were reaching court on time.

The firm's £126m contract was only extended across Scotland after its problems regarding mistaken releases were solved.

The "assessment of readiness" laid down by the SPS included assurances on resources, staff training, communications and contingency planning.

Reliance's contract is expected to be fully operational by January.