Waters and the wild get special protection

ENVIRONMENT Minister John Gormley has outlined a number of wildlife areas to be protected as part of the Government’s programme to protect our natural heritage.

Speaking in advance of International Biodiversity Week, Mr Gormley said that already this year he has signed 32 ministerial orders protecting a diverse range of sites throughout the country, from coastal cliffs and islands to larger inland lakes.

“The area covered by these sites extends to over 20,000 hectares and within a matter of weeks I expect to be in a position to sign a further 20 orders. I am determined that this programme of site designation will continue throughout the rest of the year.”