Question reference: S6W-23755
- Asked by: Mercedes Villalba, MSP for North East Scotland, Scottish Labour
- Date lodged: 13 December 2023
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Current status: Answered by Mairi McAllan on 11 January 2024
Question
To ask the Scottish Government what assessment it has made of any impact of the reported 26% real-terms reduction to SEPA's funding since 2010-11 on the agency’s ability to carry out its statutory duties.
Answer
SEPA, along with other environment bodies, plays a pivotal role in protecting and maintaining a safe, healthy and sustainable environment for the people of Scotland. This is achieved through funding from Scottish Government alongside SEPA’s regulatory activities funded by cost recovery under the principle of polluter pays.
Since 2014-15 SEPA’s budget has increased. Even accounting for inflation, they are receiving an additional £3 million in 2024-25 than in 2014-15.
The budget settlement for 2024-25 announced on 19 December recognises the increasing level and quality of work being delivered by SEPA which is why despite such challenging financial circumstances, the organisation will benefit from a 5% uplift on the 23/24 budget allocation to its core funding, bringing its core budget to £52.6m in 2024-25.
More information on the budget announcement can be found here: Scottish Budget: 2024 to 2025 - gov.scot (www.gov.scot)
Nonetheless, the Scottish Government continue to work with all public bodies to drive out efficiencies, finding new and better ways of working, creating best value for the Scottish taxpayer. In the case of SEPA, the Scottish Government work with them on the development of corporate and annual operating plans and Ministers meet regularly to discuss progress. This assessment process is therefore continual and SEPA is ultimately accountable to the Scottish Parliament.