(Pictured L-R: Michael Meharg of the Nature Friendly Farming Network NI & Clare Bailey MLA)
Thursday 10 September 2020
Green Party NI Leader Clare Bailey MLA has reacted to the Environment Minister's announcement that the Greening Requirement will be removed from DAERA's Basic Payment Scheme.
Clare Bailey MLA said: "This is a seriously concerning development which has the potential to further erode biodiversity and the protection of habitats.
"The Minister's removal of Greening Requirement without a replacement plan in sight is alarming. This is the removal of a basic requirement to diversify crops, maintain permanent grassland and foster habitats such as hedgerows.
"This is an attack on biodiversity and an undermining of the role of farmers as custodians of the land.
"Deregulation will not help farmers to face the challenges created by the climate and ecological crises. Biodiversity and farming with nature are key to a sustainable future for our farming communities.
"This is the Minister responsible for creating new biodiversity legislation for Northern Ireland as we leave the EU. It is deeply concerning to see him demonstrating not only a lack of commitment to addressing climate breakdown and the ecological crisis, but an agenda to erode already limited environmental protections."
Clare Bailey MLA concluded:
"I have little confidence that the Minister’s move will protect our environment, our farmers or our rural communities.
"I've tabled an urgent question to the Minister in light of this alarming announcement."
ENDS
Sinead McIvor - 07701 302 498