Alan Davies AM, Minister for Natural Resources and Food
This was published under the 2011 to 2016 administration of the Welsh Government
I have decided to transfer the functions, assets and staff of the Powysland, Lower Wye and Caldicot and Wentlooge Levels Internal Drainage Boards (IDB) to Natural Resources Wales.
This will improve opportunities for a more integrated approach to the management of our natural resources in the Internal Drainage Districts, remove duplication of organisational arrangements and improve resilience and value for money. By bringing this expenditure within the framework for audit and accountability we established for Natural Resources Wales, we will secure a long term solution to the many issues raised in relation to Caldicot and Wentlooge Levels IDB by the Wales Audit Office and the Public Accounts Committee.
I will be discussing the cross border issues for Powysland and Lower Wye with the Secretary of State for Defra.
I have asked officials to begin work to prepare the necessary orders and undertake due diligence on the pension arrangements and assets currently linked to the IDB, with a view to making this change in April, 2015.