7
Acknowledged
England Species Reintroductions Taskforce undermined by slow establishment and lack of stakeholder engagement.
Conclusion
We welcome the formation of the Defra England Species Reintroductions Taskforce. However, we regret that the positive impact it has the potential to create has been undermined by its slow establishment and resultant lack of stakeholder engagement. The Defra proposed species reintroduction Stakeholder Forum, created to support the work of the Taskforce, has an important role to play in engaging positively with stakeholders, broadening the Taskforce’s reach and buy-in. However, we are concerned that there is little information publicly available about that forum.
Government Response Summary
The government acknowledged the committee's concerns by providing updates on the Taskforce's establishment, meeting schedule, published terms of reference, and its plans to hold further meetings with key stakeholder groups this autumn to improve engagement.
Paragraph Reference
25
Government Response
Acknowledged
Government Response
Acknowledged
HM Government
Acknowledged
The Reintroductions Taskforce was established in 2021 and a chair appointed in September 2022. It intends to meet six times in 2023. Its terms of reference agreed in 2022 have been published online in a dedicated website https://www.gov.uk/government/groups/england-species-reintroductions-taskforce The taskforce does not play a formal role in licensing decisions. The taskforce is able to use the knowledge and expertise of its members to identify where advice related to translocations may be needed. We consider the role of the taskforce is to provide technical advice on approaches taken and cross-cutting matters regarding translocations, as set out in their Terms of Reference. For example, the group are looking at ways to improve the understanding and use of the Reintroductions Code by stakeholders to promote best practice, as well as developing understanding of the impacts of predator species reintroductions. With regard to engagement of stakeholders by the taskforce, as an observer member, Defra is aware of the taskforce’s ambition to improve engagement. The Chair has already been in contact with a number of stakeholders who have made representations. The group has further plans to hold meetings with key groups of stakeholders, including landowners and managers, this autumn.
Source
Inquiry
Species Reintroduction
Report
Fifth Report - Species Reintroduction
11 Jul 2023
HC 849
Timeline
Recommendation age
2.9 yrs
Report published
11 Jul 2023