12/01/2006 - The Environment Agency is seeking enthusiastic people with a passion for the environment around them to help shape the future of its work. Two of our committees in the Midlands are looking for new members. The Regional Fisheries, Ecology and Recreation Advisory Committee (RFERAC), and Regional Environmental Protection Advisory Committee (REPAC) provide a link between us, industry, recreational water users and the public.

Each committee aims to reflect the diversity of the Midlands region and meets four times a year during office hours, usually in Solihull. Some of these meetings include site visits. There is no salary, but travel expenses are paid.

Membership of the Committees promises the chance to fulfil an important and fascinating community role, advising and monitoring the leading public body protecting and improving the environment in England and Wales, and helping to ensure that we take everyone’s needs into account.

REPAC advises us on our performance, our policy development and work priorities, acting as a focus group representative of the wide range of interests affected by our activities, including issues such as water resources and quality, waste and contaminated land. We currently have a vacancy for a member to represent the regulated industry sector.

RFERAC advises on the maintenance, improvement and development of fisheries, conservation, navigation, ecology and recreation. We currently have vacancies for members to represent the fisheries sector.

Our Regional Director, Mark Sitton-Kent, says: ‘Knowing you’ve made a difference to your local environment can bring a real sense of achievement. Membership of either of these committees offers you an opportunity to make a real difference. Our committees play a vital role in our work and their members make a significant contribution.

"I am seeking people from diverse backgrounds who share our passion for the environment and represent the communities we serve. We all want a better environment for our children and grandchildren to live in. Come and help us make it happen."

An application pack can be obtained from Sam Todd by calling enquiries on 08708 506 506 or sending an e-mail to enquiries@environment-agency.gov.uk. The closing date for applications is 31 January 2006. Informal interviews are expected to be held on 10th March 2006 (REPAC) and 9th March 2006 (RFERAC).