Scottish Forestry avoids merger with other agencies – Daily Business

Gillian Martin: private investment is critical (photo montage by DB Media Services)

Scottish Forestry will continue as a stand-alone executive agency as the Scottish government plans to merge three others as part of its public sector reforms.

Climate Action and Rural Affairs Secretary Gillian Martin told parliament that work is ongoing to bring together the Scottish Environment Protection Agency (Sepa), NatureScot and Zero Waste Scotland into a single environment body.

The proposal to include Scottish Forestry in the new super-agency prompted widespread concern within the industry after ministers revealed plans for a structure that drew comparisons with Natural Resources Wales.

The Scottish Government today said it continues to work closely with the agencies set for merger, as well as trade unions and stakeholders, to design the new body, which will include a period of consultation.

In an answer to a Government Initiated Question, Ms Martin said: “Following careful consideration of the options for public service reform, I have decided that Scottish Forestry should continue as a stand-alone executive agency.

“I am grateful for the constructive engagement from stakeholders as I considered this decision.

“In reaching this decision, I have considered the distinctive long-term nature of forestry investment and the importance of maintaining confidence across the sector.

“Continued private investment in woodland creation will be critical in order to meet our climate change ambitions and woodland creation targets.”

Scottish Green Party MSP Ariane Burgess said: “I am glad the Scottish Government has listened to concerns from stakeholders and Scottish Forestry will continue to be a stand-alone agency.

“The forestry sector is a huge contributor to the Scottish economy, sustains thousands of jobs and is critical to delivering our long-term climate goals.

“It is critical to nature restoration, biodiversity and ensuring that we reach ambitious targets to plant new trees.”

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