asked the Minister for Finance the objectives of the International Union for Conservation of Nature and National Resources that have been found appropriate in relation to development in this country; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Conservation of Resources.
20.
The National Parks and Monuments Branch of the Office of Public Works is a member of the International Union for Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources. The main objectives of the union which are considered appropriate to the branch's activities are as follows:
(i) encouragement of co-operation between governments, national and international organisations interested in the protection of nature,
(ii) promotion of a policy of preservation of wildlife and its natural environment, and of regions, objects, and fauna and flora, having scientific, historical or aesthetic significance, and the establishment of national parks, nature reserves and sanctuaries for wildlife,
(iii) diffusion of a programme of education and information aimed at increasing public awareness of nature protection and the conservation of natural resources,
(iv) scientific research relating to nature conservation.
The National Parks and Monuments Branch meets these objectives in pursuing its activities particularly in regard to nature conservation, the establishment of national parks, environmental education and biological research, etc.