Dáil Éireann debate -
Thursday, 2 Mar 1995

Vol. 450 No. 1

Written Answers. - European Nature Conservation Year.

Trevor Sargent

Question:

43 Mr. Sargent asked the Minister for Arts, Culture and the Gaeltacht the plans, if any, he has to participate in the European Conservation Year, 1995 in view of the fact that the event was launched at the end of January 1995 in the Palais de L'Europe; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3846/95]

Minister for Arts, Culture and the Gaeltacht (Mr. M. Higgins)

I am delighted to advise the Deputy that Ireland will play a full part in European Nature Conservation Year 1995. A national committee composed of representatives of relevant Government Departments, local authorities, semi-State companies together with nonGovernmental Organisations, representatives of other interested groups such as the farming organisations, and interested individuals has been working on the project for over a year under the chairmanship of an official of the Office of Public Works.

The national committee has drawn up a comprehensive programme of events and activities which promotes action and awareness for nature conservation. This programme reflects the European them of nature outside protected areas and is aimed at encouraging participation in the activities by as many people as possible. I am arranging to have a copy of the programme made available to every member of the Oireachtas over the next few days and I would encourage Deputies and Senators to do all that they can to promote the aims of European Conservation Year.

Ireland's national committee was represented at the European launch in Strasbourg at the end of January and, as the Deputy will be aware, I formally launched the Irish campaign at the Royal Hospital Kilmainham on Thursday last, 23 February. I might mention also that in January, the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe, which includes Members of both Dáil Éireann and Seanad Éireann discussed a report on a European Conservation Policy in the context of European Nature Conservation Year which is being co-ordinated by the Council.