Protocol aims to tackle environmental crime
20 Jun 06
Prosecutors and SEPA move to closer co-operation
A new protocol for the reporting and prosecution of environmental offences has been launched today.
The protocol is aimed at formalising the existing arrangements and individual responsibilities of both the Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service (COPFS) and the Scottish Environmental Protection Agency (SEPA) in dealing with environmental crime.
It should also help improve coordination of offence reporting and ensure cases are consistently dealt with.
Welcoming the protocol, Lord Boyd of Duncansby, the Lord Advocate, said: "I am impressed by the strong partnership working that has developed since the network of environmental prosecutors was set up. The protocol will help to clarify the liaison arrangements for the specialist prosecutors and SEPA, and ensure that cases are dealt with consistently and efficiently."
Dr Campbell Gemmell of SEPA added: "We welcome this protocol as it further strengthens the relationship between SEPA and the specialist procurators fiscal, which we have successfully developed over the last few years. We are confident that it will make the prosecution of environmental crime in Scotland more effective."
A copy of the rotocol can be downloaded from the COPFS website www.copfs.gov.uk.