McGrath says protecting South Down’s Natural Beauty cannot wait… set up an Independent Environmental Agency now
SDLP MLA Colin McGrath has said urgent action is needed to protect South Down’s natural environment and deliver stronger independent oversight before the end of the current Assembly mandate.
Mr McGrath said people across South Down are proud of the landscapes and coastlines that make the area so special, but want to see far greater action to protect them for future generations.
“From the Mournes to our beaches, forests, rivers and coastline, South Down is blessed with some of the most beautiful natural places anywhere on this island,” he said.
“Places such as along the Quoile, Murlough, Tyrella, Strangford and our stunning Mourne coastline are part of who we are. They matter to local families, to tourism, to wildlife and to our sense of pride in this area.”
Mr McGrath said repeated reviews had already identified serious failings in environmental governance.
“We have had review after review telling us the same thing, that protections are too weak, enforcement is not good enough and public confidence has been damaged.
“At this stage nobody can claim they do not know the problem. What is missing is political will.”
He said the SDLP has consistently called for the creation of an independent Environmental Protection Agency.
“This was promised years ago and there is no excuse for any more delay.
“Northern Ireland is already one of the most nature-depleted regions on these islands. We only need to look at the crisis at Lough Neagh to see the cost of failing to act. South Down residents want. practical action.
“People want clean water, protected beaches, thriving wildlife and properly safeguarded green spaces.
“With limited time left in this mandate, the Executive must get on with establishing an independent Environmental Protection Agency now.
“If we are serious about protecting South Down’s natural beauty, then the time for excuses has passed.”
