This week Jon Cruddas MP was contacted by The Environment Agency regarding the measures they have taken in the current crisis to continue operating in accordance with government guidelines.
Chief Executive, Sir James Bevan explained: "Our key priorities are to protect the health, safety and well-being of our own staff, the public and the businesses and partners we work with; to prevent loss of life and serious harm to the environment; and to keep our critical operations running."
Arrangements have been put in place to ensure that as far as possible The Environment Agency can:
- Continue to respond effectively in the event of a major flood, pollution or other incident;
- Carry out our regulatory activities in a safe, secure and effective way;
- Keep our operational sites, such as flood barriers, up and running;
- Support businesses who face their own operational difficulties;
- Sustain cooperation with emergency services, local authorities and other partners, including in the Local Resilience Forums which are helping manage the current crisis.
In line with government advice most teams are now working from home and making use of virtual meetings where possible. Many are now working in shift or staggered work patterns to minimise social contact where virtual meetings are not possible.
Jon Cruddas MP said: "we have worked closely with The Environment Agency on many projects, be that cracking down on illegal fly-tipping or looking at improving our flood defences. Like many other organisations the Agency is having to adapt to a new way of working, but I have every confidence that they will continue to deliver services in a way that minimises any negative impact of the current situation."
Full details on The Environment Agency can be found on their website here: https://www.gov.uk/government/organisations/environment-agency