The previous AGM concerned the name and logo change of the Association to the Vehicle Recyclers’ Association (VRA) as an ongoing modernisation programme to enable the association to meet the demands of today’s industry.
Within this AGM some items covered was the launch of the VRA with the production of the Association Calendar for 2018 and how after many years, previous editor of the MVDA magazine, Chris Floate retired in October 2018 and the first edition of the new VRA magazine was published in March 2018.
Other items on the agenda included news regarding Committee Members: In November 2017, Richard Martin of Motorhog stood down as a Committee Member following the acquisition of FAB recycling by Motorhog. This position was filled by Paul French of Salvo group. And Andy Latham, committee member has been appointed by ARA as Chairman of the ARA Technical Advisory Committee.
Also on the agenda, the topic of illegal operators was discussed. It was stated that approximately 1100 suspected illegals have over the past two to three years been reported to the relevant authorities by the Association. Duncan Wemyss, Chairman of the VRA said ‘Sadly-to-date very little has been acted upon, but we will continue with this uphill battle and hope we energise some action. We will not give up.”
During the reporting period, responses to consultation documents including: HMRC – on the hidden economy, EU – on the Batteries Directive, EU – on the international waste shipments, EA – on a review of their fees and charges and DEFRA – on waste crime were made on behalf of the membership. The VRA will continue to liaise and have dialogue with all government departments and organisations within the industry.
The VRA will also continue its membership of European Group of Automotive Recycling Association (EGARA).
Finally, thanks were given to committee members and all concerned for their hard work throughout this last period.
If you would like to find out more about the VRA, visit their website at www.vrauk.org/
