February 17, 2021 7:13 pm
Environment Minister Gordon Lyons today encouraged industry stakeholders to take an active role in shaping Northern Ireland’s approach to environmental plans, principles and governance.
A discussion paper, highlighting three specific elements of the UK Government’s Environment Bill, which is currently making its way through Parliament, was launched by the then Environment Minister Edwin Poots on December 10, 2020.
The document will remain open for comment until February 26, 2021.
Encouraging people to register their views on the document before time runs out, Minister Lyons said: “Environmental principles are at the core of international environmental law and, following the end of the EU withdrawal transition period, I am keen to ensure that Northern Ireland continues to benefit from the application of these important principles during the policy-making process.”
Under the European Innovation Partnership scheme, the Department for Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA) has awarded funding of up to £840,000 to seven Operational Groups.
The Groups bring together expertise from advisers, researchers and businesses to take forward project proposals which address a range of issues that farmers are currently facing.
These include options for reducing carbon emissions, improving water quality, improving animal health and welfare and reducing the use of pesticides.
Announcing the funding award Minister Lyons said, “It is very encouraging to see farmers, advisers, researchers and industry representatives coming together to develop innovative solutions to real issues on the key themes of environmental sustainability, improving productivity and animal health and welfare.