AS a result of deep concern for the residents affected by the sudden emergency flare-ups at the Mossmorran, Scottish Conservative and Unionist Spokesperson and Shadow Minister for Local Government, Alexander Stewart put his constituency question to the First Minister on the subject at Holyrood on Thursday.

Mr Stewart said: "I would like to draw the First Minister’s attention to a serious problem in my region of Mid Scotland and Fife.

"Flaring at Mossmorran, from the Exxon/Mobil Fife Ethylene Plant has been causing anger, distress and upset amongst many residents.

"The flare which lights up the sky with a horrible pulsating orange glow, can be seen from as far away as Angus.

"The night sky has been turned to daylight for many in, Lochgelly, Cowdenbeath and Kelty, causing anxiety, sleeplessness and distress amongst young children and animals".

He said: "Day after day, residents have had to endure unwelcome noise pollution and vibrations. Not to mention the negative impact it is having on air quality and the environment.

"Will the First Minister take affirmative action to hold ExxonMobil to account over their unannounced flaring, and give my constituents proper answers after months of worry and a lack of updates on the issue?”

The First Minister, Nicola Sturgeon MSP conceded in her reply: “…I will ask the environment secretary to write to the Member (Mr Stewart) and I will request a full explanation from SEPA as to the findings of their investigation as it is a serious matter which needs to be properly and transparently resolved…”