As a member of our Assembly, the one thing that I can do, is to serve diligently as DAERA (Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs) Minister to prioritise the protection of our environment alongside supporting NI’s agri-food sector.
I’ve been involved with the agriculture community all my life, and through my previous role as Environment Minister, I understand only too well the key role that the environment plays in our quality of life – from our emotional wellbeing and lifestyle to boosting our local economy, and promoting our excellent global reputation.
The environment is clearly one of our most important assets. My focus as DAERA Minister is to find ways we can all work together to achieve positive outcomes for nature and business.
We all deserve clean air to breathe, good quality water to drink, excellent food produce, a thriving economy and a healthy landscape to enjoy.
Yes there are many challenges ahead from reducing waste, ammonia and greenhouse gas levels, to reducing single use plastic and pollution in our rivers - but many opportunities also exist.
At DAERA we recognise that our working landscape is shaped by generations of farmers who work tirelessly to produce high quality food.
Our farmers know they need to do this in a way that is environmentally sustainable, protecting habitats and landscapes and uses up-to-date science and research.
Working with farmers, businesses, local government, schools and the public, my intention is to develop initiatives that promote and enhance good environmental practices.
I am currently considering how we widen out the climate change debate outside of my department. I recognise that to tackle the climate change issue, we need a whole system approach.
I will be asking for support from my Executive colleagues, the agri-food and farming sector, across big industries and from all of us, as citizens and the guardians of our green lands.
You’ve responded in your hundreds to our discussion paper on Northern Ireland’s first ever Environment Strategy, which will help inform a future consultation paper. I’d love to hear more of your big ideas to tackle the issues – closing date for responses is February 5 2020.
By facing up to these challenges and making the most of the opportunities we aim to deliver on our vision of a living, working, active landscape valued by everyone.
Belfast Live's #Do1Thing campaign is encouraging our readers to make small changes to their lives to help in the fight against climate change. Have a look at our special hub here.
- Videos by Belfast Live's Harry Bateman
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