This item was published during the term of a previous administration that ended in April 2007
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Fisheries (Electricity) Committee
01/04/2004
The re-appointment to the Fisheries (Electricity) Committee of Professor Susan Walker was announced today.
The Committee is an Advisory Non-Departmental Public Body (NDPB) which advises and assists Scottish Ministers, and any person engaging in, or proposing to engage in, the generation of hydro-electric power, on any questions relating to the effect on fisheries or stocks of fish.
Professor Walker has been re-appointed for a further four years from April 1 until March 31, 2008. The appointment is part-time and attracts a level of remuneration of £70 per meeting.
Professor Walker OBE has 20 years experience in the water and environment industry, latterly as Regional Water Manager for the Environment Agency, with responsibility for Water Resources, Fisheries, Flood Defence, Conservation and Recreation. She is currently part-time Professor of Geography and Environment at the University of Aberdeen specialising in integrated river basin management; and works as a freelance consultant.
Th appointment was made in accordance with the Code of Practice issued by the Office of the Commissioner for Public Appointments.
Professor Walker holds the following Ministerial Public Appointments: non-executive Board member of Scottish Natural Heritage, Deer Commission for Scotland, Scottish Environment Protection Agency and Cairngorms National Park.
All appointments are made on merit and political activity plays no part in the selection process. However, in accordance with the original Nolan recommendations, there is a requirement for appointees' political activity (if any declared) to be made public. Professor Walker has not been politically active in the last five years.
Members of the Fisheries Committee are appointed under the terms of the Electricity Act 1989.
The main purpose of the Committee is to consider proposals for new hydro-electric schemes over one megawatt in capacity, with a view to advising how damage to fisheries or fish stocks might best be avoided or mitigated, and make any necessary recommendations. The Committee can also advise on smaller hydro schemes as well as the effects of the water systems of thermal generating stations.
The Committee is independent in its proceedings and may investigate, or advise on, matters at its own initiative or when requested to do so.
The Committee meets throughout the year, including meetings with the generating companies and others with an interest in hydro-electric development and its potential impact on fish and fisheries.