RSPB Cymru welcomes a report called Inquiry into marine policy in Wales which was released last Tuesday (22 January) by the assembly's cross party group.
The report highlighted some concerns over Welsh Government’s delivery of key legislation, including the Marine and Coastal Access Act, and the need for greater recognition for the marine environment and its importance to Wales.
Over a third of Welsh seas are designated protected sites, yet many are failing to protect the marine wildlife they were designated for. The Welsh marine area is almost double the size of Wales, and we’re concerned that the marine area, to date, has not been given the same priority as terrestrial areas.
In particular we welcome the Committee’s recognition that protection of the areas of sea next to already protected coastal breeding colonies (designated as Special Protection Areas) for seabirds, areas used for foraging and mating displays, are long overdue. We hope that Welsh Government makes the delivery of this recommendation a priority, and ensures swift designation of these essential sites.
We are looking forward to working with the Welsh Government and other stakeholders to deliver a true ecosystem approach for Welsh waters. We hope that the recommendations within the report are considered fully by Welsh Government and look forward to their response.
Gareth Cunningham is marine policy officer for RSPB Cymru