COMMITTEE CHAIRS’ REPORTS

Members considered the report which provided an update on business progressed through Committees and Oversight Groups since the last Authority Meeting.

Committee and Oversight Group Chairs highlighted the main points raised at their meetings:
• Commonwealth Games Oversight Group: planning assumptions, wellbeing arrangements, finance and risk updates were all discussed. Since the meeting, planning costs have been formally signed off, and one risk outside tolerance relating to vetting and accreditation has reduced from very high to high.
• Forensic Services Committee: the drug driving pilot in Shetland had highlighted the extent of the drug driving issue. Proposals were made to introduce 3 further pilots in future and the roll out and unintended consequences were discussed. The Crown Office assured the Committee they could cope with increased demand. It was noted any requested would come through the Resources Committee.
• Legal Committee: The Committee welcomed reporting improvements on statistics relating to legal claims handling. Discussion had focused on organisational learning and risk management relating to employment tribunal cases.
• Resources Committee: Associated efficiencies and benefits of the COS Phase 2 was discussed, and the Enhanced Communities Policing FBC was approved, with Members noting the interdependencies between workforce and digital developments and the estates masterplan. An update had been requested on how capacity challenges around transformation would be addressed.
• Audit, Risk and Assurance Committee: Two Internal Audit reports on Health and Safety, and management of recommendations were discussed. The Police Scotland Executive team had provided assurance on the valued place on health and safety and that priority would be given to reducing the number of open recommendations. Members were keen to understand the process to distinguish the significant number of concerns under whistleblowing and those that are protected disclosures. The draft Annual Report and Accounts was also considered.

Members noted the report.