SDLP Foyleside Councillor Mary Durkan
Miss Durkan remarks come in the wake of recent report from a range of sources exposing the ongoing decline of our nature.
Said Cllr said: “All the indicators of recent weeks in relation to the quality of our land, air and water point to the fact that we are moving in the wrong direction.
“Instead of addressing gaps and lack of certainty in environmental protection at this crucial time, current government policy is actually proving to be destructive to nature and our environment.
“Last month a DAERA report highlighted the significant decline in the quality of our lake water, showing that current policies are not fit for purpose.
“This week we are faced with a RSPB NI report revealing that the Executive’s 2015 Biodiversity Strategy to reverse nature decline is failing on an astounding 83% of its targets.”
Miss Durkan added: “In the midst of these alarming evidence-based findings exposing the urgent need for tightening of regulations and legally-binding protections, we are actually witnessing the removal of protections.
“We are seeing deregulation instead of regulation- such as last week’s announcement of the removal of certain “greening requirements” of farm payment schemes.
“Instead of seeking to radically improve our biodiversity strategy, the government is essentially ripping up our already limited environmental protections.”
Miss Durkan concluded: “The case for independent environmental protection agency here has never been stronger.
“It is vital that the establishment of same is actioned as soon as possible as per the commitment in New Decade, New Approach.
“We are crying out for specific climate legislation here as we continue to lag behind neighbouring regions.
“Action is needed now to protect our natural environment and our public health and to invest in a robust green recovery.”
