Job cuts at the Environment Agency
What’s happening? Because of larger than expected budget cuts, the EA is having to reduce its staffing levels by 15%. This means cutting staff numbers from 11,400 to 9,700 by October 2014. The current plan is to maintain these levels through to March 2015; however, this is subject to future funding.
How will the EA be affected? According to the EA, the cuts are likely to have a significant impact on its ability to complete its current functions. Initially, it will amalgamate some of its existing regions and close certain offices. In addition, senior staff are looking at its functions to see what can be discontinued.
Nothing to worry about. Some commentators - notably Friends of the Earth - have stated that cuts to enforcement budgets will result in a free-for-all as the threat of penalties will be minimal. However, we think it’s unwise to assume that this will be the case.
Why is this? Although the EA isn’t admitting it, the budget cuts haven’t come as a shock - it’s been preparing for them for some time. The most notable example is that routine inspections are already a thing of the past. EA inspectors now follow a risk-based approach and rely on businesses to self-report problems. Therefore, even with the current resources, these modern detection techniques enable the EA to identify businesses that aren’t doing what’s required of them.
Tip 1. Ignore the “don’t worry about enforcement” remarks. The EA is still on the ball. Its officers will continue to monitor permits, check for water/ground pollution etc., and will follow up complaints about environmental damage.
Tip 2. Don’t forget that the EA isn’t the only enforcement body that deals with environmental issues. For example, you still need to stay on top of noise and dust, otherwise you will have the pleasure of dealing with officers from your local authority.
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