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29/09/2023
281 Species Of Wildlife At Risk Of Extinction In NI
Some 281 species of wildlife are at risk of extinction in Northern Ireland, according to the latest State of Nature 2023 Report, published by the RSPB.
Following the publication, Alliance Environment spokesperson John Blair said that the report was "yet another stark reminder of the danger our natural environment is in".
The South Antrim MLA has said: "As if the current crisis we have been facing in recent months with blue-green algal blooms in Lough Neagh and other areas across Northern Ireland is not a sharp enough wake-up call, the publication of RSPB's State of Nature report highlights yet again the devastating condition of our species population, habitats and ecosystems.
"The report has highlighted that 12% of our species are being threatened with extinction, with the European eel being one of the species identified. Additionally, the area of certified woodland has decreased in Northern Ireland despite increasing in England, and around half of our protected areas are in an unfavourable condition.
“Northern Ireland has so many natural assets, but if we continue this trend, we will cause irrevocable damage. As stated in the report, we know what needs to be done, and there are many opportunities for restoration and recovery, but we must act quicker.
"Urgent movement from DAERA on its nature recovery strategy is essential. When I last sought an update from the Department in June I was told a draft strategy would be published in autumn, and I will continue to press for this timely delivery. However, it is also clear that the lack of a functioning Executive only further contributes to the delay when it comes to environmental action. We need to get the Assembly back up and running and a minister in place to ensure vital progress gets underway."
Following the publication, Alliance Environment spokesperson John Blair said that the report was "yet another stark reminder of the danger our natural environment is in".
The South Antrim MLA has said: "As if the current crisis we have been facing in recent months with blue-green algal blooms in Lough Neagh and other areas across Northern Ireland is not a sharp enough wake-up call, the publication of RSPB's State of Nature report highlights yet again the devastating condition of our species population, habitats and ecosystems.
"The report has highlighted that 12% of our species are being threatened with extinction, with the European eel being one of the species identified. Additionally, the area of certified woodland has decreased in Northern Ireland despite increasing in England, and around half of our protected areas are in an unfavourable condition.
“Northern Ireland has so many natural assets, but if we continue this trend, we will cause irrevocable damage. As stated in the report, we know what needs to be done, and there are many opportunities for restoration and recovery, but we must act quicker.
"Urgent movement from DAERA on its nature recovery strategy is essential. When I last sought an update from the Department in June I was told a draft strategy would be published in autumn, and I will continue to press for this timely delivery. However, it is also clear that the lack of a functioning Executive only further contributes to the delay when it comes to environmental action. We need to get the Assembly back up and running and a minister in place to ensure vital progress gets underway."
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Irish Mammals Under Serious Threat
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Rising Temperatures Affect NI Marine Life
Rising sea temperatures are having a significant detrimental effect on Northern Ireland’s marine life. A joint report was conducted in coastal waters at Rathlin, Skerries and Strangford Lough by researchers from National Museums Northern Ireland and Department of Environment’s Marine Division.
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21 November 2024
UK Education Ministers Meet In Northern Ireland
Northern Ireland hosted the fifth UK Education Ministers' Council (EMC) meeting at Laurelhill Community College in Lisburn.
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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.
