PRESS STATEMENT
SEPA welcomes Budget increase
22 September 2000
PRESS STATEMENT
SEPA welcomes Budget increase
22 September 2000
The Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA) has welcomed the Scottish Executive's announcement of an increase in its funding for the next three years.
Sarah Boyack, Minister for Transport and the Environment today announced an additional £16.5 million for SEPA over the next 3 years (£5.3m in 2001-2; £5.3m in 2002-3 and £5.9m in 2003-4).
SEPA Chairman Ken Collins warmly welcomed the announcement:
"I am delighted that the Scottish Executive has decided to increase its overall environmental budget. This is a recognition of how important a high quality environment is to Scotland. From SEPA's point of view the additional money we have been allocated will mean we are able to take forward major work, including for instance the Landfill and Water Framework Directives, which will lead to improvements in the quality of Scotland's environment."
Tricia Henton, SEPA's Chief Executive added:
" The additional resource is most welcome. As well as the work highlighted by our Chairman, we will also be able to invest in IT systems which will increase our organisational efficiency and effectiveness.
"I was also very pleased to see that the Minister is announcing resources for a range of other initiatives relating to waste management. Changes in the way we manage our waste are essential if Scotland is to become a more sustainable society, so I look forward to the new impetus the additional money will bring to the issue."
SEPA's overall budget is made up partly by grant-in-aid from the Scottish Executive and partly by income from charges it levies under the 'polluter pays' principle. In the current financial year grant-in-aid is £17.3m and the total budget is £34.3m.
ENDS
SEPA Press Office contacts
SEPA Public Relationsteam - Direct telephone numbers: 01786 457723/4 Fax: 01786 448040
SEPA Head Office, Erskine Court, The Castle Business Park, STIRLING FK9 4TR
Tel: 01786 457700 Fax: 01786 448040
Contact SEPA Public Relationsat publicrelations@sepa.org.uk