Brian O'Shea
Question:374 Mr. O'Shea asked the Minister for the Environment and Local Government the position regarding the implementation of the national biodiversity plan; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26387/02]
Written Answers. - National Biodiversity Plan.
The national biodiversity plan, which was published by the Government in April 2002, provides a framework necessary for the conservation and sustainable use of biodiversity over the next five years. The plan was developed taking account of the European Community biodiversity strategy, adopted in February 1998, and is designed also to comply with the obligations of the UN Convention on Biodiversity, which Ireland ratified in 1996, to produce at national level plans to conserve biodiversity.
Implementation of the plan, which is at a preliminary stage will depend on all action by a range of sectors and stakeholders. All Government Departments, local authorities and relevant State agencies have been contacted and advised of the elements of the plan coming within their remit. A number of meetings have been held with key stakeholders. Representation on the interdepartmental biodiversity steering group is being expanded to drive forward implementation. I intend also that, early next year, guidelines for preparing biodiversity action plans will be finalised for Departments, State agencies and local authorities.