OEP report "another damning indictment of the Stormont Executive" - Cllr Smyth

Green Party Councillor for Lisnasharragh, Brian Smyth has stated that today's report by the Office for Environmental Protection on biodiversity in Northern Ireland is another damning indictment of the Stormont Executive.

Cllr Smyth said "The report finds that agri-industry in its current form is making unsustainable demands on the environment. Our current land use is out of control and poisoning our land, rivers and air. It has spelt out in stark terms how we need to reduce pollution by nutrients from farming and sewage, as well as an urgent need to restore natural habitats and move towards more regenerative farming practices. Yet only a number of months ago, the DAERA Minister Andrew Muir delivered a weak action plan for Lough Neagh. I have little faith that the minister, his department or the Executive can meet the challenges head on."

"Beyond the photo ops and bland press statements the Stormont Executive shows no leadership or political will to tackle our biodiversity crisis. They continue to be held in the grip of the Agri Food sector, for whom some put profit above human health and our precious environment."

"It's no accident how we have gotten here. Northern Ireland has been ranked 12th worst in the world for biodiversity loss."

Cllr Smyth concluded "The Stormont Executive is a public health risk to us all."

ENDS

Press enquiries - Brian Smyth 07823 668431