Management of protected areas is worrying - Ford

2.16.00pm UTC (GMT +0000) Thu 14th Aug 2008

Alliance leader David Ford MLA

Alliance leader David Ford MLA has stated the news that Northern Ireland's protected areas are not being adequately managed is worrying. Figures just released shows that less than half of Northern Ireland's protected areas, known as Areas of Special Scientific Interest (ASSIs), are not being properly maintained.

David Ford MLA said: "This is extremely worrying that the majority of protected areas are not being well maintained. I am sure that most people who get enjoyment from these protected areas will be concerned.

"Northern Ireland is failing to live up to its obligations to declare an adequate number of ASSIs and to maintain the ones we currently have. This further strengthens the case for an independent environmental protection agency. It also illustrates the inadequacy of funding for this vital purpose.

"I would call on the Minister for the Environment Sammy Wilson to make it one of his priorities that these protected areas will be better protected in the future"

ENDS