Agenda item

Report of the Remembrancer.

The Committee received the report of the Remembrancer informing Members of the relevant provisions of the Infrastructure Bill which would introduce a new regime to facilitate the control of non-native invasive species. Under this regime, Government bodies would be able to enter into voluntary agreements with landowners, setting out what measures are to be taken in order to eradicate or control an invasive species. Where the voluntary process is unsuccessful, it would be possible to make binding orders requiring the landowner to take action or to pay the costs of doing so.

Discussions ensued regarding the inspection rota and the possible incurrence of costs under the new regime. Officers clarified that there were no initial costs to be incurred or duties imposed on responsible authorities to enforce an inspection programme until the powers of the regime were evoked against the authority. Officers confirmed that Spanish bluebell (Hyacinthoideshispanica)were classed as a non-native invasive species and were kept under a close watch by Officers.

RECEIVED.