A total of 258 responses were received to the consultation, and whilst the majority of respondents indicated that they were in agreement with the issues outlined, a significant number (no percentage quoted) indicated that they had some concerns about the conclusion that a smaller NTO network was the most appropriate solution to the issues.
13 NTOs commented that a smaller network was not necessarily the best solution. Other respondents expressed concerns that by reducing the size of the NTO network, representation of smaller specialist sectors would be threatened. NTOs could potentially become further removed from their sectors.
“This reflects our position entirely”, says Tony Hirons. “Whilst the waste management industry may not employ hundreds of thousands, its importance cannot be underestimated. Furthermore, when you consider the question of waste it is a challenge to a far greater number of other industries than just our own. I feel this document, which gives information on consultation responses from a wide range of bodies – not just existing NTOs but also Educational and Employer Representative Organisations, Training Providers, Qualification Bodies and Trade Unions provides a ringing endorsement to our campaign and I look for early confirmation for WINTO from the Minister.”
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