To report current matters of concern

1.1 At its meeting on 13 November 2008, the Chairman’s Working Party Sub-Committee considered a number of staff matters reported in the enclosed minute of that meeting (Members only).

2.1 During discussions with all field staff on 14 November 2007, a requirement to review and update the policy and risk assessment on lone working on intertidal areas was identified. The PFO will carry out the review in consultation with staff as soon as possible.

2.2 No significant health and safety incidents have been recorded since the policy was last reviewed.

2.3 The Committee’s health and safety policy was reviewed by the CEO, PFO and F/AO on 21 November. No other amendments to the policy were considered to be necessary.

3.1 The Chairman’s Working Party, at its meeting on 13 November 2007, heard a report on the condition of the patrol vessel. The undertaking of a major refit of the engines and electrical system in 2008 was approved. The minute of that meeting is attached (Members only).

3.2 Funds for the refit, which could cost up to £100,000, are available in the Committee’s capital assets reserve fund which was created some years ago and has remained level at approximately £80,000 in recent years. Any shortfall from this fund would be met from the Committee’s general reserves.

3.3 While there are no major faults at present, a number of recent minor faults in the electrical system indicate that the overall condition of the system may have deteriorated. This could lead to increased safety risk and cannot be allowed to continue without investigation.

3.4 Similarly the engines are functioning normally at present but the manufacturer (Caterpillar) has given notice that they require to be reconditioned much earlier than we had previously expected. The repairs to the gearboxes and pumps carried out earlier in 2007 have already contributed important new components to Aegis.

3.5 Officers have already obtained preliminary estimates from potential contractors in Glasson Dock (Lancashire) and Pwllheli (Gwynedd). A more detailed specification for the work is being prepared to confirm the costs. The latest information at time of writing is provided at Annex A