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The Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA) has announced a number of changes to its internal procedures for regulating Dounreay. The action follows the recommendations of an inquiry, commissioned by SEPA, which highlighted weaknesses in communications and management systems.
SEPA’s main board commissioned Sir Laurence Hunter of Glasgow University to carry out the independent inquiry. Sir Laurence was asked to consider the integrity of the management and communication systems used by SEPA in relation to Dounreay. He was given complete access to SEPA staff and documentation. The inquiry report concludes that:
- team meetings were irregular and ineffective
- quality procedures were absent or inadequate
- senior managers failed to address serious issues
- communication between senior managers and the board were ineffective.
Dr Campbell Gemmell, SEPA’s Chief Executive, said: “I want to reassure people that there is no evidence that the environment has been put at risk. However, it is not acceptable for an organisation like ours to neglect the proper processes. Since I became chief executive I have devoted considerable time to addressing this issue and I will continue working to secure the improvements we need. I have prepared an action plan that will ensure we have robust procedures in place for carrying out our duties.
Dr Gemmell continued: “We are currently going through the process of meeting the challenges set out in the Scottish Executive’s review of our performance. Many of the recommendations in that review are related to the issues identified in this inquiry, particularly those on communication and delegation. We are already taking positive action to improve our ways of working.”
SEPA Chairman Sir Ken Collins, said: “Whilst I am confident that neither the public, nor the environment, have been put at risk, we are very aware of our responsibilities to the Scottish community and the Scottish environment. The high standards we expect of others must apply equally to our own procedures and practices. That is why the board arranged for this investigation, and we will now ensure that the appropriate steps are taken.”
Sir Laurence’s report also highlights the integrity and enthusiasm of staff, and a strong core of cultural values and behaviour on which to build.
The main recommendations of the report are to
- ensure there is effective delegation, and that a programme is put in place to develop best management practice
- improve the communication culture of SEPA at all levels
- develop essential quality and work procedures.
Dr Gemmell’s action plan, which addresses the issues raised, is available here.
Ends
Notes to editors
• The Scottish Executive has been kept fully informed.
• The inquiry report is available here
• This is the complete report, edited only to remove references that could identify individuals.
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