Programme of reform drives up costs at GOC

Operating expenditure at the GOC increased by nearly £500,000 in 2008 compared to the previous year, according to figures in its annual report for 2007/08.

The report, published last week, shows that operating expenditure increased in 2008 to £3,454,368 compared to £2,923,195 in 2007. The Council has previously stated that the cost of implementing changes from the government White Paper, Trust, Assurance and Safety, had made an impact on outgoings in the past year.

Among the changes driven by government regulation has been the move to a more 'board-like' Council, with a recruitment campaign under way by an independent body to fill the chairman's position and that of the 11 members.