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Waterwatch Scotland
01/10/2008
Infrastructure Minister Stewart Stevenson today announced the appointment of the Interim Convener for Waterwatch Scotland (WWS).
Mr Stevenson said:
"I am delighted to announce the appointment of Mrs Heather Brash as Interim Convener for Waterwatch Scotland from October 1, 2008. Mrs Brash was selected after a limited competition in compliance with the Office of the Commissioner for Public Appointments in Scotland (OCPAS) Code.
"She has served on the WWS panel representing the South East area of Scotland for over five years. Her extensive background with Citizens Advice Bureau and Scottish Consumer Council in delivering advice and information provide the essential skills and knowledge in the consumer advocacy ideally suited to this role.
"The appointment follows the sad and sudden death of the Ian Smith, in July."
One of the primary roles of WWS is customer representation. Ministers are currently deliberating the delivery of customer services following the Scottish Government's Scrutiny Review. A major role will be to ensure that WWS adapts effectively and constructively to future challenges.
Waterwatch Scotland is the collective name for the organisation comprising the Convener of Scottish Water Customer Consultation Panels and his five regional panels. It was established by the Water Services etc. (Scotland) Act 2005 and has the role of:
- representing customers, both household and non-household
- investigating complaints
- influencing policy
Her appointment is for a period up to two years, the post is part-time and attracts remuneration of £19,200 a year for a time commitment of an average of eight days per month.
Although the Convener is a Ministerial appointment it is not one regulated by OCPAS. Nevertheless, the process largely adhered to OCPAS guidance which contains provisions for such an appointment in exceptional circumstances and emergency appointments. An independent member outwith the Scottish Government sat on the Selection Panel.
Mrs Brash, who lives in Castle Douglas, has been a member of the South East of Scotland Panel with WWS since 2003. She was also a member and Vice-Chair of the Scottish Consumer Council from 2002 to 2008. She is currently a non-executive Board Member of NHS, Dumfries and Galloway.