By Colum Delaney, Policy Advocacy Officer (Northern Ireland)
2012 could be a watershed year for Northern Ireland’s marine environment.
After years of campaigning, the NI Marine Bill is finally being discussed at Stormont, with the legislation expected to be on the statute books by 2013. This crucial piece of legislation will determine how our seas are managed in the future.
Of course, the hard work begins now.
RSPB Northern Ireland has been working through the Northern Ireland Marine Task Force (NIMTF) to ensure that our local politicians recognise that the Marine Act must have nature at its heart.
We are already years behind England, Scotland and Wales in protection for our seas. Amongst a range of measures, the NI Marine Bill will introduce powers to allow for the creation of a new type of protection: Marine Conservation Zones – areas of the sea dedicated to protection for species, habitats or features on the sea floor (like caves and reefs).
If you live in Northern Ireland, why not send a pre-prepared email to your MLA asking them to support a strong natured focused Bill here: www.communityni.org/campaign/marine-act
Wherever you live, if you would like to lend your support at this time, please go to the NIMTF website and vote ‘Yes’ for a Marine Bill with wildlife at its’ heart - www.nimtf.org/
Also, why not ‘tweet’ your support – and in 140 characters, tell us what the sea means to you. Use the hash tag #theseameanstome to let us know your thoughts, memories, hopes and fears for the future of our seas.
Thank you for your support.
Colum
Kittiwakes: Anthony Griffiths