Menu
11/04/2003
Mournes National Park moves a step closer
Minister of the Environment, Angela Smith, has revealed that a further step has been taken towards the designation of a National Park in the Mournes, the first of its kind in Northern Ireland.
A Steering Group, with nominees from a wide range of interested bodies, has been set up to take forward the designation. The Group met for the first time in Newcastle earlier in the week to start the process of developing detailed proposals.
Commenting on the meeting, the Minister said: “I am delighted that progress is being made on this exciting development. The National Park is a concept of great significance for the people of the Mournes and indeed people throughout Northern Ireland.
“One of the first tasks is to map the way forward. I am determined that we should find a formula which will make the most of the opportunities which National Park designation will open up, particularly for those who live in the Mournes."
Referring to the commitment that she made in February at the launch of a new Protected Landscapes initiative, she added: “It is essential that we find effective ways of involving elected representatives in the process and of consulting local people. I am therefore pleased to learn that it is the unanimous view of the Group that the process must be as open as possible with every opportunity for people to contribute to it and influence the outcome. The Group has set itself the initial task of organising a major consultative event in June 2003.
“The main aim of this event will be to seek the views of elected representatives and local people and to reach a consensus on how they can take part most effectively in helping to shape the National Park. It will also aim to identify the main issues to be addressed in the process and where detailed studies might be needed.”
(MB)
A Steering Group, with nominees from a wide range of interested bodies, has been set up to take forward the designation. The Group met for the first time in Newcastle earlier in the week to start the process of developing detailed proposals.
Commenting on the meeting, the Minister said: “I am delighted that progress is being made on this exciting development. The National Park is a concept of great significance for the people of the Mournes and indeed people throughout Northern Ireland.
“One of the first tasks is to map the way forward. I am determined that we should find a formula which will make the most of the opportunities which National Park designation will open up, particularly for those who live in the Mournes."
Referring to the commitment that she made in February at the launch of a new Protected Landscapes initiative, she added: “It is essential that we find effective ways of involving elected representatives in the process and of consulting local people. I am therefore pleased to learn that it is the unanimous view of the Group that the process must be as open as possible with every opportunity for people to contribute to it and influence the outcome. The Group has set itself the initial task of organising a major consultative event in June 2003.
“The main aim of this event will be to seek the views of elected representatives and local people and to reach a consensus on how they can take part most effectively in helping to shape the National Park. It will also aim to identify the main issues to be addressed in the process and where detailed studies might be needed.”
(MB)
Related Northern Ireland News Stories
Click here for the latest headlines.
08 March 2024
Additional £3m Announced For Supporting People Programme
An additional £3 million in funding for the Supporting People programme, which aims to the quality of life for vulnerable people through appropriate housing-related services, has been announced by Communities Minister Gordon Lyons.
Additional £3m Announced For Supporting People Programme
An additional £3 million in funding for the Supporting People programme, which aims to the quality of life for vulnerable people through appropriate housing-related services, has been announced by Communities Minister Gordon Lyons.
12 October 2015
Video Games Can Undermine Child's GCSE Performance - Survey
Frequently playing video games can undermine a child's performance in their GCSEs, according to new research.
Video Games Can Undermine Child's GCSE Performance - Survey
Frequently playing video games can undermine a child's performance in their GCSEs, according to new research.
24 June 2003
Mournes 'National' Park talks continue
Plans for a National Park in the Mournes area were discussed today during a meeting in Co Down. The meeting, held in Newcastle, examined both the proposal and to seek a consensus on how local people, elected representatives and various interested parties can most effectively participate in the process.
Mournes 'National' Park talks continue
Plans for a National Park in the Mournes area were discussed today during a meeting in Co Down. The meeting, held in Newcastle, examined both the proposal and to seek a consensus on how local people, elected representatives and various interested parties can most effectively participate in the process.
12 November 2013
National Parks Plan Shelved
Environment Minister Mark H Durkan has said he will not be pushing for legislation to introduce national parks in Northern Ireland. He said: "I am of the view that the concept of national parks has much to offer Northern Ireland.
National Parks Plan Shelved
Environment Minister Mark H Durkan has said he will not be pushing for legislation to introduce national parks in Northern Ireland. He said: "I am of the view that the concept of national parks has much to offer Northern Ireland.
09 April 2024
Police Attacked By Young People In West Belfast
The PSNI have condemned the assault of four police officers when they were attacked by young people in West Belfast. At around 6:50pm on Saturday, 06 April, police received a report in relation to community concerns that a large group of young people had congregated in Falls Park and that alcohol was being consumed by children.
Police Attacked By Young People In West Belfast
The PSNI have condemned the assault of four police officers when they were attacked by young people in West Belfast. At around 6:50pm on Saturday, 06 April, police received a report in relation to community concerns that a large group of young people had congregated in Falls Park and that alcohol was being consumed by children.
-
Northern Ireland WeatherToday:A showery start with outbreaks most frequent north of Lough Neagh and through the morning, before dwindling during the afternoon as the northwest breezes ease and brighter spells of weak sunshine prosper. Maximum temperature 8 °C.Tonight:A dry night, save for a few light showers around the coasts, with prolonged clear spells and light winds bringing a frosty dawn for many in central and southern parts. Minimum temperature -3 °C.
