Volume 9 * Issue 4 * May 2008 NIEL NEWS 89 Loopland Drive BELFAST BT6 9DW T: 028 9045 5770 F: 028 9094 2151 E: [email protected] W: www.nienvironmentlink.org

Inside this Issue...

Director Sue Christie News from NIEL 2 [email protected]

Assembly News 5 Policy Officer Seamus og Gallagher Climate Change News 8 [email protected] Members’ News 10 Communications & Membership Officer Stephanie Baine News from EEF 14 [email protected]

Environmental News 15 Office Manager Sandra Kilpatrick Publications 19 [email protected] Consultations 20 Administrative Officer Iona Meyer Environmental Events 22 [email protected] Part-time Administrative Officer Training & Resources 25 Karen Nicholson [email protected] Funding 26 EEF Co-ordinator Recruitment 27 Andy Griggs [email protected]

Copyright Notice: Items may be reprinted freely with acknowledgement to NIEL or specified authors. Submissions for NIEL News

Disclaimer: We welcome your contributions for NIEL Some articles featured have been edited for length News. If you’d like us to publicise your or relevance. NIEL has placed no additions or changes news and events please send details to of emphasis upon the articles unless indicated. Articles [email protected] or post. The are the views of NIEL or its members. copy deadline is the 1st of every month. Note: All items included in a previous edition have been highlighted in grey. News from NIEL

NIEL Staff Karen Nicholson recently started with NIEL as our new Administrative Officer. Karen will Update be working part time and is going to take over much of the work behind NIEL News. She comes from a very experienced background with the Irish School of Ecumenics (Trinity College Dublin) and we are delighted to welcome her to the group. She is married to Kerry who comes originally from Dunmore East, Co Waterford. Kerry works in administration for The Cedar Foundation and is based at their Balmoral Training Centre. They live in Belvoir Park opposite the road into Belvoir Forest with their three cats! From their home they enjoy watching the comings and goings of the forest wildlife including foxes, badgers and lots of bird life including a visit from a heron last winter! In her spare time Karen enjoys working on her allotment at Annadale where she grows all sorts of flowers, fruit and vegetables; reading and being part of a book group; swimming; walking and attending yoga classes. She loves holidaying in Scotland and the South of France and visits these places every year as well as regular trips to Kerry’s family in the sunny south east of Ireland!

NIEL is also delighted to announce its senior Policy Officer Seamus óg Gallagher is soon to be made into an honest man. Early in May, his fiancée Iona will be walking down the aisle to agree to start sharing her life with Seamus óg. Iona there is still time…..

NIEL has been lucky enough to have had six student placements from Queen’s School of Biological Sciences MSc Course in Ecological Management and Conservation Biology. Over the last month David McCann, Keiran Flood, Edmund Orr, Kevin Haughian, Anthony Morrow and Suzie McIlwain have been giving us a great deal of help.

Thanks to all of you.

NIEL Members Thank you all those members that have filled out the NIEL Member’s Survey. We really appreciate the time you gave us and will soon be able to look at how to improve all our Survey services to our members.

We also hope to update our Members’ Directory in the Summer.

Dates for your Date Event Venue Contact Diary 13th May Planning Task Force NIEL Seamus 10.00am 16th May Freshwater Task Force Rowallane Seamus House 21st May Biodiversity - Members NIEL Seamus 10.00am Networking Event 21st May NI Marine Task Force TBC Seamus

27th May NIEL Finance Committee NIEL Sue 10.00am 27th May NIEL Executive Committee NIEL Sue 11.30am 9th June NIAF Meeting NIEL Sue 10.30am 18th June Conference ‘Food, Farming & Cultra Manor, Sue/Stephanie 9.30am the Environment – the Future’ Ulster Folk & Transport Museum 18th June NIEL AGM Cultra Manor, Sue/Stephanie 3.30pm Ulster Folk & Transport Museum 24th June NIEL Strategic, Information & NIEL Stephanie 10.30am Membership Committee Meeting

NIEL NEWS May 2008 2 News from NIEL

NIEL Meetings April

Committee for NIEL members testified during a meeting of the Committee looking at climate change issues and presented information on the impacts of climate change on personal and public Health, SS and health. Gary McFarlane (CIEH) and Patricia Mackey (SNI) attended. PS – 21 April

Meeting with A very constructive meeting where we learned of the excellent work the DHSSPS is doing on their new developments. A comprehensive assessment procedure to ensure that all John Cole, aspects are considered in each development has been prepared and is in use. Many of their Sustainable new development are state of the art on UK and global terms. We encouraged them to Development promote this work throughout government and councils, and they agreed to help us in our outreach. Terry Waugh (Action Renewables), Gary McFarlane (CIEH). Seamus Gallagher Champion, and Sue Christie attended; Keith Millar of DHSSPS also present. DHSSPS – 22 April

Committee on We presented a summary of our comments on the consultation and answered questions during our one hour session. Questions seemed to be designed to help develop a positive Agriculture support structure for renewables in agriculture. We stressed the need for support for and Rural both new crops/land uses and especially for exploitation of waste products as sources of Development renewable energy. Action Renewables had an hour before us and WWF an hour after. Sue – Enquiry into Christie, Patricia Mackey (SNI) and Peter Christie (AFBI) attended. Renewable Energy and Land Use. 1 May.

Minister for the The Minister had a day long series of meetings with a variety of groups involved in the National Park in the Mournes debate; NIEL was invited to attend the ‘interested NGOs’ Environment event. Progress on the Park is extremely slow; while it appeared the Minister is reasonably Arlene Foster – well disposed, the vehement opposition of local land owners is a serious problem. It was National Park proposed that a number of avenues be explored – enabling legislation, pilot projects in AONBs, work on access and liability – which may help to allay their fears before moving Discussions - 1 forward on the park itself. Some 25 NIEL members and other groups were present. May.

John McGrath A meeting of a number of people concerned with SD in education operations and policy met to encourage a greater degree of integration of SD into both the curriculum and actual – SD Champion operations in DE work in schools. The opportunities this provides for coordination and for Dept for effective teaching were stressed, and the concept of schools as centres for community Education. 2 SD was presented. A very rushed meeting, and we will be providing a follow-up note and proposal for action. Sue Christie, Shirley Lewis (Baglady Productions), Liz Wallace (WELB), May. Brigid Murray (BELB) and Steve Aston (EHS) attended.

The Agriculture is a key example of how human activities have profound impacts on the International ecosystems of our planet. Day for This year’s theme for the International Day for Biological Diversity (IBD), “Biodiversity and Biological Agriculture,” seeks to highlight the importance of sustainable agriculture not only to preserve biodiversity, but also to ensure that we will be able to feed the world, maintain Diversity agricultural livelihoods, and enhance human well being into the 21st century and 22 May 2008 beyond. Biodiversity and Agriculture http://www.cbd.int/ibd/2008/

Convention on Biological Diversity

NIEL NEWS May 2008 3 News from NIEL - Task Forces

Miss Earth County Fermanagh beauty queen, Aine Gormley, Ireland added her voice to the growing chorus of support for an Environmental Protection Agency as she delivered delivers EPA 3000 campaign postcard to MLAs at Stormont on campaign Wednesday 15th April. message to MLAs at 26 year old Ms Gormley wore the stunning ball gown that she wore in the Philippines when she won the title Stormont of Miss Earth as she delivered her campaign message to legislators at Parliament Buildings. As a PhD Student Coalition for with the University of Ulster in freshwater pollution, she Environmental was horrified by the State of the Environment report Protection launched recently. She is backing an EPA to replace the DOE Environment Heritage Service in Northern Ireland, the only region in the United Kingdom and Ireland not to have an independent organisation fulfilling this role.

Miss Earth explained why she backed the campaign “During the international finals of Miss Earth I was proud to represent a country that was perceived by people across the globe as enjoying high environmental standards. But in reality, this is very different. As The State of the Environment Report shows, we have poor water quality, a growing mountain of waste, problems of illegal dumping and sky-high carbon emissions.”

The event was organised by the Coalition for Environmental Protection. NIEL is one of the prominent members and Seamus was delighted to be involved in this particular event.

SNI & NIEL SNI together with NIEL ran a half day seminar for the Department of Culture, Arts and Leisure (DCAL) to promote sustainable development to both their employees and member Sustainable organisations. Examples of those present at the seminar were DCAL central services as well Development as the Education and Library Boards, Museums, Arts Council and Waterway Ireland. Seminar with The purpose of the seminar was to demonstrate to delegates the importance and relevance Department of of sustainable development, the Sustainable Development Strategy and the Duty for Culture, Arts & Sustainable Development to their organisation and their job. The aim of the event was to Leisure enthuse and motivate delegates to make changes in their own organisations’ work practice, both strategically and operationally.

The seminar opened with an introduction from Edgar Jardine, DCAL’s sustainable development champion. He started by outlining the purpose of the seminar to “fill knowledge gaps … and provide practical help in how to take things forward”. He went on to explain how some of DCAL’s functions have a very specific role in the Sustainable Development Strategy e.g. fisheries, inland waterways and biodiversity; while other sections such as libraries should view their role as key sources of information to generate interest and activity by the public.

Other speakers spoke to the delegates concerning what is happening in Northern Ireland with regard to sustainable development and why it is important that all the delegates are aware of their responsibility and opportunities. Legislative controls such as building regulations were also highlighted as being imperative to offset the expected impacts of climate change. Other topics covered include biodiversity, community involvement and effective communication for sustainable development.

The seminar was an important step forward for DCAL and feedback received indicated that delegates felt more aware of how they must contribute to the sustainable development agenda – if not slightly daunted by the task ahead.

NIEL NEWS May 2008 4 Assembly News

By Seamus og Gallagher, Policy Officer, Northern Ireland Environment Link Plenary The next council elections are to be postponed for two years until 2011, Secretary of State Discussions Shaun Woodward MP has confirmed. The decision follows a request from Environment Minister Arlene Foster MLA to delay the elections - scheduled for next year - until 2011 to reflect the new local Government structure. Review of Public Administration On 22 April the Assembly Resolved: “That the Second Stage of the Local Government (Boundaries) Bill (NIA 14/07) be agreed”. The Bill is the first step towards implementing the Executive’s decision on those elements of the RPA that concern local government. Accelerated passage is needed in order to secure the appointment of a Local Government Boundaries Commissioner in early July 2008, which is essential if the 2011 deadline is to be met. The Bill’s purpose is to set the context for a review of local government boundaries in Northern Ireland in 2008 and to provide for the appointment of a Local Government Boundaries Commissioner to conduct that review.

The Bill gives effect to the Executive’s decisions of 13 March 2008. It has six clauses, two of which are substantive. Clause 1 provides for the rationalisation of the existing 26 local government districts into 11 new districts. It sets those new districts’ broad boundaries by joining together “the whole or the major part” of the existing districts to form new larger local govern­ment districts and divides those districts into wards. Clause 2 provides for the appointment of a Local Government Boundaries Commissioner in 2008 to conduct a review and make recommendation on the boundaries and names of the 11 local districts, and the number, boundaries and names of the wards into which each district is to be divided. The clause also allows for a review of boundaries to take place every eight to 12 years thereafter. Northern Ireland The Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment, Mr Dodds, detailed Northern Ireland’s Energy Targets intended response to EU energy targets: “At a recent EU Council meeting, member states agreed the target that 20% of the see page 5 for more European Union’s energy consumption should come from renewable sources by 2020. details The target for the United Kingdom is 15% of total energy consumption across electricity, heat and transport. Whatever the final level of the target, it will require a step change in renewable energy consumption and production. There are currently no plans to set separate targets for the devolved Administrations. Northern Ireland will, however, wish to contribute to those very challenging national targets. I have recently written to Executive colleagues, seeking cross-departmental co-operation to ensure a co-ordinated approach.” Locally Produced On 14 April 2008 the Assembly resolved: “that this Assembly calls on the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development to bring forward plans to increase the Northern Food Ireland public sector’s procurement of locally produced food; and to promote country of origin labeling on menus in hotels and restaurants.” The motion was tabled by Tom Elliott with a PJ Bradley amendment accepted.

NIEL’s annual conference will analyse many of the issues around food and the environment, including the benefits of selecting local food.

TB and Badgers The Agriculture and Rural Development Minister responded to a question on badgers and TB: “I have recently received the badger stakeholder group’s report, which I have decided to publish (www.dardni.gov.uk/badger-stakeholder-group-report.pdf). It makes a good contribution to our deliberations on tackling tuberculosis in badgers in the North. I am keen to study the report’s findings, and, before I come to any decision on the way forward here, I will give full consideration to what the group says. In recent years, we have made considerable progress on TB. Since peak disease levels in 2002, herd incidence has reduced by nearly 50%. In Wales, the trend inclines sharply the other way. Evidence that the removal of badgers reduces the instance of TB in cattle is complex; it is not certain that removing badgers will necessarily result in a further decline of TB in cattle across the North. Given that trends in disease levels here have been downward, I want to ensure that any action we initiate will be of clear benefit and, at the very least, will not make things worse by reversing the current positive trend. The badger is a protected species and, ultimately, any decision to intervene in badger populations will require both my agreement and that of the Environment Minister.”

NIEL will shortly be seeking views from its membership on a briefing paper on this issue. NIEL NEWS May 2008 5 Assembly News

Cycling Trips The Minister for Regional Develop­ment, Conor Murphy, outlined performance against cycling targets: “The targets that are set out in the regional transportation strategy 2000-2012 are to double cycling trips between 2000 and 2005, and to quadruple them between 2005 and 2015. To date, cycle usage has not met those challenging targets. Roads Service measures cycle usage with a series of fixed cycle counters across the North. Cycle usage increased by 57% in Belfast between 2000 and 2006, and the average increase across all locations was 26·3%. Although cycling infrastructure has been provided, persuading the public to abandon the car in substantial numbers has yet to be achieved. Based on the current trend, it is unlikely that the number of cycle trips will be quadrupled between 2000 and 2015.”

In a recent meeting with Mr Murphy NIEL called on the Minister to invest much more significantly in non-car based travel modes and highlighted the importance ofan integrated approach to transport. Answers to Written Questions (11, 18 and 25 April 2008) www.niassembly.gov.uk/qanda/answer.htm

Environment In response to Mr J McCallister the Minister stated that, “I will carefully consider my approach to environmental governance. In so doing I will take account of the EPA recommendations in “Foundations for the Future” and of resource considerations, the views of the Environment Committee and of any points which stakeholders wish to make. I expect to make a public statement on the way forward towards the end of the year, following discussion with my colleagues on the Executive.”

NIEL believes that a Ministerial statement announcing the formation of an independent Environmental Protection Agency and the implementation of other aspects of the REGNI report is long overdue. We hope that this statement will be made before the Assembly’s summer recess.

Plastic Bags In response to questions by Ms C Ní Chuilín and Mr D McKay the Minister outlined the UK policy on plastic bags:

“ The current UK-wide voluntary agreement between Government, the Waste Resources Action Programme and retailers aims to reduce the overall environmental impact of all carrier bags by 25% by the end of 2008. Retailers are seeking to achieve this reduction by: • encouraging customers to significantly reduce the number of carrier bags they use; • reducing the impact of each carrier bag e.g. by using less material or incorporating recycled content • enabling the recycling of more carrier bags where appropriate.

In last month’s budget speech the Chancellor of the Exchequer said that legislation would be introduced to impose a charge on single-use carrier bags if we have not seen sufficient progress on a voluntary basis. This is obviously a very significant development and my officials are currently liaising with colleagues in GB to obtain more detailed information on initial legislative proposals and we are also considering any possible implications for Northern Ireland.

Following discussions last year major supermarket chains are already signed up to the current UK voluntary agreement and I am encouraged by the varied initiatives brought forward by supermarket chains to reduce usage of carrier bags. The Waste Resources Action Programme hosted a meeting with retailers in February 2008 to review progress on the voluntary agreement and reported that although there is now clear momentum from retailers more work needs to be done to bring about a substantial reduction in the environmental impact of free single-use carrier bags.”

NIEL would encourage more action to reduce all packaging waste. Encouraging the reduction and reuse of packaging and bags is essential. Analysis of the recycling and composting options and the total embedded carbon in different packaging solutions highlights the complex nature of this, and many other, environmental problems (see www.guardian.co.uk/environment/2008/apr/26/waste.pollution). NIEL believes that life- cycle analysis should be used to determine the most sustainable alternative to plastic packaging.

NIEL NEWS May 2008 6 Assembly News

TPOs The Minister stated that in the last five years her Department has investigated 61 cases where it was alleged that trees protected by a Tree Preservation Order (TPO) had been damaged or destroyed without the required consent of my Department and that has been only one successful prosecution during that time. The prosecution resulted in a £200 fine. More recently a developer was convicted for the removal of 39trees within Ballycastle Conservation Area. Trees in a Conservation Area are afforded the same protection as if they were covered by a TPO. The developer was fined £5000 and £425 court costs and is also required to replant trees on the site.

NIEL believes that the legislation related to TPOs and the enforcement of the legislation must become much more robust. Woodland Protection Orders and Felling Licences should also be introduced.

Septic Tanks The Minister acknowledged that there are environmental issues associated with septic tank discharges and the Environment and Heritage Service has initiated research to examine these. The research will determine the impact of Northern Ireland’s dispersed population on water quality and will provide support to government policy on rural development and the associated impacts on water quality.

Finance & Mr P Robinson said the following sustainability and energy efficiency requirements have been included in the draft Workplace 2010 contract issued to bidders as part of the Personnel best and final offer (BAFO) process: • A minimum of 10% of energy supply to be achieved from Low and Zero Carbon Energy Efficiency Technologies (LZCT) at the facilities e.g. biomass, solar water heating, combined heat and power, ground source heating and cooling etc. by year 6; • Additionally a minimum of 10% green electricity to be included in the energy sourcing mix; • The achievement of a Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method (BREEAM) rating of “Excellent” for new Facilities and at least “Very Good” for refurbished facilities; • A 30% reduction in carbon dioxide emissions per square metre over the life of the contract; • Reduction of water consumption at the facilities by 25% by Contract year 20; • Promotion of materials recovery, reuse and recycling.

Agriculture In response to Mr B McCrea, Ms M Gildernew said: and Rural “I intend to offer increased levels of support under a new Organic Farming Scheme Development to assist farmers who wish to convert from conventional to organic production. The following payments are proposed on a ‘per hectare’ basis, and will be apportioned over five years: horticulture (including top fruit) - £670; arable - £570; and, other improved Organic Farming land - £470. I also propose to offer an ongoing post-conversion payment of £30 per hectare per year for certified organic land under the proposed Organic Option in the new Countryside Management Scheme.

In December 2007 I launched the Agricultural and Forestry Processing and Marketing Grant Scheme providing up to 40% financial assistance towards capital costs for producers and processors involved or wishing to become involved in processing and marketing. In addition, the Agricultural and Forestry Marketing and Development Grant Scheme and the Supply Chain Development Programme, both due to be launched in 2008, will provide financial assistance to farmers and processors to enhance their marketing capability.

DARD has offered funding under the Northern Ireland Regional Food Programme towards the set up of an organic guide and web facility for producers and consumers.”

Local Food On locally sourced food the Minister said, “DFP is the Government Department with responsibility for public sector contracts and I met recently with Peter Robinson MP MLA to discuss how we can increase the use of locally sourced products. I am keen that we explore all opportunities to use local produce as much as possible whilst adhering to EU law. My officials are working alongside DFP’s Central Procurement Directorate to develop advice and guidance on public procurement of food through the Sustainable Procurement Action Plan.

NIEL NEWS May 2008 7 Climate Change News

By Seamus og Gallagher, Policy Officer, Northern Ireland Environment Link

Isle of Lewis The Isle of Lewis, the northern most Hibernian Island, has become an area of great controversy in the past month. During the past few months many commentators have wind farm described the Island as being in social, political and environmental turmoil, with communities and families divided over developments that would have fundamentally changed the Conservation landscape. However it has emerged that plans for a wind farm of several hundred of the world’s largest turbines, generating 702MW of electricity, a 150MW scheme of 53 turbines vrs Climate? and a third farm of about 375MW have been rejected by the Scottish executive. Estimate suggested that Lewis could have generated as much electricity as two large nuclear power stations from the largest concentration of wind power in the world, providing almost a quarter of Britain’s electricity needs.

The project would have made substantial contribution to reducing Britain’s greenhouse gas emissions, wiping out a quarter of a million tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions every year. With climate change at the top of the list of political priorities, most now agree that Britain desperately needs to expand its renewables sector. How this can be done without major negative impacts on wildlife and landscape remains one of today’s toughest challenges. Diverging groups of environmentalists have found themselves standing toe to toe (often with themselves) on these contentious issues. RSPB, for example were strongly opposed stating that “we cannot support any renewable generation proposal which would have a significant and adverse impact on wildlife and habitats, particularly sites which are protected by law specifically for their wildlife value.” This is despite having a strong commitment to climate change and related matters such as being a founding member of the environment and development agency coalition Stop Climate Chaos, and also launching its own green electricity tariff, RSPB Energy, in partnership with electricity company Scottish and Southern, to supply consumers with renewable electricity, much of it generated from wind. The Lewis project, although supported by the Western Isles Council, received 11,000 objections from members of the public, with only 100 comments in favour.

Another contentious issue is the Severn estuary project which could potentially generate 5% of the country’s entire supply. But building it would have severe ecological consequences on the tidal mudflats, which host a panoply of aquatic life and wading birds - the RSPB, this time supported by Friends of the Earth (FoE), is strongly in the anti camp. Jonathon Porritt’s Sustainable Development Commission (SDC) last year proposed building the barrage but ensuring that compensatory habitats were established elsewhere for displaced wildlife - especially if these new habitats could help birds and other species adapt to rising sea levels and other impacts of climate change. The importence of planning is clear in such discussions. Decision makers need to take into account the views from both sides of the environmneatal debate including stakholders within local communities. The new turbine recently installed in Strangford Lough, although a lot smaller than many other projects, can potentially act as a case study for others to learn from.

Biofuels The EU is having second thoughts about its target of using biofuels for 10% of transport fuels by 2020 because of the impact on food prices and land use. It says enough that one car tank of biopetrol needs as much grain as it takes to feed an African for a year, or that a reported one-third of American grain production is now subsidised for conversion into biofuel. Britain introduced the renewable transport fuels obligation (RTFO) last week under which at least 2.5% of fuel sold in petrol stations must come from crops such as soy or palm oil. This level is due to be gradually raised; the European commission is aiming at 10% by 2020. The government has already bowed to criticism over its biofuels policy by instigating a review of the issue while refusing to revise the target, which rises to 5% by 2010. Like the conservation vrs climate issue, even as environmental campaign groups lobby against the new government-sponsored biofuels mandate (a reversal from their favorable position a few years ago), the Royal Society still insists that biofuels “have a potentially useful role in tackling the issues of climate change and energy supply”.

More recently leaders of Bolivia and Peru have attacked the use of biofuels, saying they have made food too expensive for the poor. Speaking at the United Nations, the Bolivian president, Evo Morales, said the increased use of farmland for fuel crops was causing a “tremendous increase” in food prices. Reuters reported Garcia as saying biofuels were “creating very serious problems for countries that have to import these (food) products. We believe there are alternative energies that do not put the world’s food in danger.” Peru’s government has been forced to hand out food to the poorest in the country’s capital, Lima, because of the crisis caused by rising food prices. It has cut tariffs and raised interest rates to try to curb inflation, which rose 4% last year. However, the Brazilain government NIEL NEWS May 2008 8 Climate Change News

has rejected the claim that his countries production of Biofuels has forced a rise in global food prices and harms the environment. He stated that “Food is expensive because the world wasn’t prepared to see millions of Chinese, Indians, Africans, Brazilians and Latin Americans eat”, which is a point of view many development NGO’s would stand by. Brazil has become the centre of the biofuels debate as it has enjoyed an agricultural export boom, and has become the world’s largest exporter of ethanol, which is derived from sugar cane.

The chairman of the IPCC, Rajendra Pachauri, notably observed in March that questions arise on the emissions implications of that route, and that biofuel production has clearly raised prices of corn, with an overall implication for food security. What is clear is that this debate is set to continue for a long time to come. Climate change Members of CCCNI have been busy meeting various parliamentary committees. To date, committee various representatives from a spectrum of environment and development NGO’s have met DETI, DFP and DHSSPS, with more departmental meetings lined up. Coalition members letters who have taken part in the meetings have been given the opportunity to express their position on issues relating to the various committees. Consistent within all the meetings has been the call to set legally binding emissions reduction targets for NI. NI has already signed up to the UK climate change bill, but a further NI bill would commit NI to 80% reductions on 1990 levels by 2050. At present CCCNI is calling on all MLA’s to sign the ‘No day named motion’ on climate change which will put climate change high on the political agenda.

UK Climate On Monday 31 March the House of Lords voted after its third reading of the Climate Change Bill. This is a departure from normal practice in an attempt to speed up the legislative change Bill process. Government had hoped to get the Bill into law by May, but amendments forced progress through in its passage through the House of Lords against strong government opposition could now delay that until October or November. To track the progress of the bill click on: http://services.parliament.uk/bills/2007-08/climatechangehl.html

UKCIP’s Climate For the latest UKCIP Climate Digest (March 2008), go to Digest www.ukcip.org.uk/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=214&Itemid=9

Articles of Biodiversity Loss Hurts Drug Discovery, Says Medical Book: A new generation of Interest this drugs made from nature, from antibiotics to treatments for cancer, may be lost unless the world acts to stop biodiversity loss, according to a new book. Month http://www.planetark.org/dailynewsstory.cfm/newsid/48109/story.htm

China Aims For First Zero Emission Power By 2015: China plans to build a major emissions-free coal burning power station by 2015, the project chief said on Wednesday, putting it at the front of a tight global race to build the first commercial scale plant. http://www.planetark.org/dailynewsstory.cfm/newsid/48117/story.htm

Wind of change blows in Tanzania: A group of villagers gather at the local bicycle repair shop at Njiapanda, a dusty roadside hamlet on the rift valley in Singida region in central Tanzania, to marvel at magazine pictures of massive electricity-generating wind turbines. http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/business/7358776.stm

Waste wood – the untapped resource for Biomass Fuel: The huge potential of reusing waste wood as fuel is being wasted, Environment Minister Joan Ruddock has warned. The significant carbon and energy benefits of recovering energy from waste wood are detailed in a new information report on the sector that surveys the activities of producers, aggregators and users of waste wood. http://www.defra.gov.uk/news/2008/080409b.htm

Tabloids rapped over climate coverage: The “deliberately contrarian” tone of tabloid newspapers had damaged public perception of climate change, a research paper published today said: http://www.guardian.co.uk/media/2008/apr/28/pressandpublishing. climatechange US air force calls for mission to combat climate change:The US air force will this week call for the world’s top scientists to come together in a 21st-century Apollo-style programme to develop greener fuels and tackle global warming. It wants universities, governments, companies and environmental groups to collaborate on a multibillion-dollar effort to work out greenhouse gas emissions of existing and future fuels http://www. guardian.co.uk/environment/2008/apr/28/climatechange.scienceofclimatechange

NIEL NEWS May 2008 9 Members’ News

Politicians put Local politicians have joined forces to make a simple, positive gesture for the environment by planting trees on the Stormont Estate. The politicians received a helping hand from down roots at the Woodland Trust, the UK’s leading woodland conservation charity. Stormont Speaker William Hay, who hosted the tree planting ceremony, was joined by First Minister Rev Ian Paisley, deputy First Minister Martin McGuinness, Environment Minister Woodland Trust Arlene Foster, and Chair of the Environment Committee Patsy McGlone. The Assembly Members planted a small grove of birch, ash and oak as a symbol of the Executive and Assembly’s commitment to increase Northern Ireland’s native woodland cover.

Native woodland brings a whole range of health, social and wildlife benefits, yet Northern Ireland ranks as one of the least wooded regions in Europe. The country fares badly with six per cent woodland cover, compared to the European average of 44 per cent. Furthermore, most of this cover is coniferous, meaning that our native, broadleaved woodland occupies only 1.2 per cent of the Northern Ireland landscape.

Further news can be found at www.woodland-trust.org.uk

An Apple a Day A staggering 4.4 million apples are being thrown away untouched each day in the UK. Gets Thrown Away These are the astounding findings from research conducted by WRAP. Love Food Hate In response to these findings, Love Food Hate Waste is leading a team including Sainsburys, to look at why we are wasting so much fresh produce and what can be Waste/WRAP done about it.

In support of the Love Food Hate Waste campaign and as part of the research, Sainsburys is trialling new storage guidance to customers both in store and on its website. Findings from the research will be shared with all retailers.

www.lovefoodhatewaste.com http://www.wrap.org.uk/wrap_corporate/news/an_apple_a_day_ gets.html

Tidy NI Welcomes Tidy NI has recently appointed a new Chief their new Chief Executive. Executive Dr Ian Humphreys is due to start in mid-May and will take up the mantle of Chief Executive. His office will be based with us at the NIEL offices. We all welcome him and wish him well in his new post.

www.tidynorthernireland.org

Peter Stone Peter Stone has been appointed the new chairman of WRAP (Waste & Resources Action Programme), it was announced Appointed today. Chairman of WRAP He will take over from WRAP’s founding chairman Vic Cocker after an open appointment process.

Mr Stone has had a long and distinguished business career. After reading law at Cambridge and qualifying as a lawyer he was one of the three founding directors of Close Brothers, the UK investment bank. During his 23 years with the bank, this trio took the business through one of England’s earliest management buyouts in 1979, its flotation on the London Stock Exchange in 1984, its subsequent growth into a wide-ranging financial services group, and its present position as a large FTSE 250 company.

http://www.wrap.org.uk/wrap_corporate/news/peter_stone.html

NIEL NEWS May 2008 10 Members’ News

New £773,000 The Lodge in Castlewellan took on a new lease of life on the 4th April 2008 when it officially opened as a new culture and business centre following extensive renovations Culture And undertaken over the past year. Business Centre Opens in Situated in Main Street, the listed building which has been refurbished at a cost of more than £804,244 incorporates 6,823 sq ft of high specification office, training and Castlewellan community space including eight lettable retail offices as well as conference facilities and a cultural performance area. Traditional Irish music organisation, Comhaltas Rural Development Ceoltóirí Eíreann has been secured as anchor tenant.

Council The project has been funded by the International Fund for Ireland which has contributed £391,256 to the scheme, the Northern Ireland Rural Development Council (RDC) which has granted £183,000 through the EU Building Sustainable Prosperity programme, the Department for Social Development (DSD) which has donated £141,256 and Down District Council £52,000. The remainder of the funding has been raised by the project facilitators Castlewellan Regeneration Company Limited.

Castlewellan Regeneration Company Limited was established in 1993 to regenerate the economic, environmental and social life of the Castlewellan area. This project follows on from the company’s successful Hillyard House scheme completed in 2002 and whose profits have been reinvested into The Lodge. www.rdc.org.uk

Young People in Young people in the Greenisland estate have been doing their bit to spruce up their local environment. Members of Knockagh Youth Club and scouts from the 1st Greenisland Greenisland clean pack took to the streets today to tidy up the estate. The project is part of an Investing up environment for Health programme being delivered across the Northern Health and Social Services Board Area, designed to support communities in improving their health and wellbeing. Northern Ireland Funded by the Northern Investing for Health Partnership, the Greenisland project is Housing Executive spearheaded by the Housing Executive’s Carrickfergus District Office, with Neighbourhood Warden, Robert Gilliland, playing a leading role in organising the day.

The estate tidy-up has also been a resounding success, with young people from the area showing their willingness to help look after the environment and play their part in the local community

Projects such as these provide a practical means of contributing to the local area, helping strengthen the community and everyone taking part has also enjoyed being involved.

http://www.nihe.gov.uk/news/news.asp?Id=1549

The hunt picks The Woodland Trust is asking everyone to take part in its Ancient Tree Hunt. While there is no official register of ancient trees in the UK, it is estimated that the country up pace, thanks is home to around 80 per cent of Northern Europe’s ancient trees. With your help, the to funding from mission is to pinpoint their exact location. Environment and The project, launched last summer, is already unearthing some fantastic finds. A Heritage Service remarkable oak at Belfast’s Belvoir Park Forest, estimated to be 500 years old, is possibly the oldest tree in Northern Ireland. Indeed Belvoir is home to a significant The Woodland Trust number of veteran trees, suggesting that the estate managed to escape the timber demand of the 18th and 19th centuries.

Funding from Environment and Heritage Service will enable the Woodland Trust to collate existing tree records held by partner organisations, to spread the Ancient Tree Hunt word, and engage with existing and potential recorders.

Visit the Ancient Tree Hunt website for tree hunting tips, including how to recognise an ancient tree and how to measure its girth. Find out more and record online at www. ancienttreehunt.org.uk or telephone the Woodland Trust’s Bangor office on 028 9127 5787 for a free leaflet.

NIEL NEWS May 2008 11 Members’ News

New Era for Lough The historic and present day importance of picturesque Lough Neagh to the surrounding Neagh region cannot be overestimated. In physical terms it is huge, Lough Neagh is the biggest Lough Neagh body of freshwater in Britain & Ireland and the third biggest lake in Europe, measuring over 300 Partnership square kms. Lough Neagh is situated in the centre of Northern Ireland with five of the Province’s six counties touching its shores.

Lough Neagh Partnership has taken the first steps in developing the Lough Neagh Brand. A Launch event was held on 17th April at Ballyronan Marina to showcase the new range of promotional material developed by the Lough Neagh Partnership. This includes an innovative new website, an events guide, visitor guide, walking guide, cycling guide, fishing guide and an environmental guide; all of which are available to download from www.discoverloughneagh.com

Alan Clarke, Chief Executive of NITB was the main guest speaker at the event and spoke of the importance of the branding and marketing of Lough Neagh in line with the aim of NITB; to ensure that the industry contributes to the creation of a dynamic, competitive economy and that the huge potential of tourism is realised in a sustainable way.

Eimear Kearney, Marketing Officer for the Lough Neagh Partnership, said “Lough Neagh has never been marketed as a recreational, tourism facility before, the potential for developing this wonderful natural resource is massive and local people are very excited about the future of the Lough.”

RES Celebrates In early April, Renewable Energy Systems (RES) hosted the official opening of Lough Hill Wind Success At Official Farm, situated between Drumquin and Killen in Opening Of Lough County Tyrone. Hill Wind Farm The event was a double celebration for RES, for as well as opening Lough Hill Wind Farm, the Renewable Energy company is also celebrating reaching the 100 Systems megawatt milestone, for wind energy built in Northern Ireland.

Douglas Wright, CEO of RES UK & Ireland said Lough Hill Wind Farm today, “2007 was a very successful year for RES Esler Crawford Photography and for Northern Ireland, in terms of renewable energy development. The year saw us build three new wind farms, Wolf Bog in County Antrim, Altahullion Phase 2 in County Londonderry and Lough Hill in County Tyrone, which together took the total amount of wind energy installed by RES in Northern Ireland past the 100 megawatt mark. With continued commitment from Government wind energy can continue to make a leading contribution towards the achievement of Northern Ireland’s renewable energy targets, bringing benefits to the environment and the economy through the production of a clean, sustainable and local fuel source.”

The event, which took place at the Manor House Hotel in Killadeas, followed by a trip to the wind farm itself, also featured a prize giving to the winners of a local schools’ competition to name the six wind turbines at Lough Hill: ‘Knots to Watts’, ‘Power Tower’, ‘Wilbur’, ‘Airagon’, ‘Big Gusty’ and ‘Joe Power’. The six winning pupils were from Castlederg High School, St. Eugene’s High School Castlederg, St. Mary’s High School Irvinestown and St. John’s Business and Enterprise College Dromore. www.res-group.com

Competition winner Claire McGrath from St. John’s Business and Enterprise College Dromore, with RES UK & Ireland CEO Douglas Wright and DETI representative Barbara Swann

NIEL NEWS May 2008 12 Members’ News

Call for input into The MCI’s current Strategic Development Plan (2005 - 2008) will expire at the end of 2008. Our aim is to have Mountaineering a new Development plan in place by late 2008, setting Council of out our priorities from 2009 - 2013. Ireland Strategic A strategic development group incorporating Volunteer Board Members and Staff Development Plan members has been established to bring the plan to fruition and to facilitate and manage (2009 – 2013) an inclusive planning process involving all members of the MCI. It is our aim that the resultant plan will be realistic and achievable.

It is our wish that the new Strategic Development Plan 2009 -2013 is owned and understood by all MCI members and non members alike. In order to achieve our goal a detailed comprehensive, inclusive and proactive consultation process has been planned.

You can complete an Online Discussion Document as part of the process: http://www.surveymonkey.com/s.aspx?sm=ts3Cd2R3mWaQOcTGwCyXTw_3d_3d or Telephone (+353 1) 625 1115, Email [email protected].

The British Council

Low Carbon Future

Northern Ireland It was announced that the Northern Ireland Energy Agency has been appointed as the preferred tenderer to manage and operate the Energy Saving Trust advice centre in Energy Agency Northern Ireland for the next three years in a contract worth almost £1.5 million. Awarded £1.5 Million Contract The Energy Saving Trust advice centre Northern Ireland pilot was one of only three across the UK and was the most successful, consistently outperforming and achieving challenging targets.

Speaking after the announcement, Nigel Brady, Director of the Northern Ireland Energy Agency said “Winning this tender places the Agency at the forefront of energy advice provision here in Northern Ireland. Our staff will continue to give quality, impartial advice in the areas of energy efficiency, renewable energy and low carbon transport, working with householders, local authorities and supply chains to deliver low carbon solutions.”

The Energy Saving Trust advice centre will, in addition, provide information, signposting and advice on water use and waste to encourage consumers to become more aware of the link between their own actions and climate change. [email protected]

NIEL NEWS May 2008 13 News from EEF

By Andy Griggs, Co-ordinator, Environmental Education Forum The Environmental Education Forum (EEF) is a networking organisation that promotes a co-ordinated approach to the delivery of environmental education and education for sustainable development in Northern Ireland. Protection of It is important for groups working with children, young people or vulnerable adults to ensure that they are aware of the responsibilities placed on them, both by legislation Children and and the common law duty of care. Vulnerable Adults (POCVA) Update This is to advise you of some imminent changes that will affect the processing of POCVA checks.

On 17th March 2008, the former POCVA system ceased. On 1st April 2008 AccessNI started processing checks in their place. This is the NEW SYSTEM for accessing criminal history information on potential employees / volunteers which replaces the system offered by the POCVA team at the DHSSPS. The requirement to check ‘regulated positions’ (for children) and ‘care positions’ (for vulnerable adults) under POCVA is still the current legislation. These posts require an Enhanced Disclosure. All organisations needing to access police record checks for these posts need to register with AccessNI - the cost of registration being £150. The process of registration may take up to four weeks.

It is a criminal offence to employ somebody who is legally disqualified from working with children and/or vulnerable adults. The only way to access this information is through an AccessNI check.

After April 1 there is a fee of £30.00 for an Enhanced Disclosure which is the level of check required for regulated positions and care positions. Volunteers in the ‘not for profit’ sector currently receive FREE checks.

POCVA legislation will be replaced in Autumn 2009 by Safeguarding Vulnerable Groups (NI) Order - a new vetting and barring system. For further information visit: www.accessni.gov.uk/index.htm The Magic of The Magic of Tree was a week-long conference held at Loughry Campus, Cookstown from Monday 4 to Friday 8 February 2008. Over 400 children from 18 Northern Ireland Trees: Children’s primary schools turned out in full force for a unique opportunity to get to grips with Conference nature. Professional artists worked alongside the children to encourage an appreciation of trees, woodland and nature using creative media such as poetry, storytelling, photography and music.

The website at www.naturedetectives.org.uk/magic contains lots of photos and stories from the event, plus activity sheets and follow up information for visiting teachers, parents and kids.

LEEF Newsletter The latest LEEF Newsletter from the EEF is now available to download from the EEF website. This issue of the LEEF Newsletter has been designed to help teachers develop Transport integrated approaches to dealing with transport issues in schools and the wider community. It details practical projects to carry out and provides links to a variety of groups and agencies to call upon for help and support.

Copies of all past and current issues of the LEEF Newsletter are available to download from: www.eefni.org.uk/publications/index.asp

Join the Forum Are you interested or involved in environmental education? Then why not consider joining the Forum? Membership is open to all organisations and individuals, and fees are based on a band system. As well as being part of a major network of environmental education providers, you will benefit from: a quarterly newsletter (LEEF), regular e-bulletins, Forum meetings (5 per year), conferences (2 per year), University ESD Days (as above), support and publicity for your work and much more!

For more information on the EEF or how to join please contact Andy Griggs, EEF Co-ordinator on tel: 028 9094 2156, email: [email protected] or visit www.eefni.org.uk

NIEL NEWS May 2008 14 Environmental News

Brand new E.ON, one of Britain’s big six energy suppliers, is teaming up with the University of 1930s house Nottingham to build a replica 1930s house which will be used to test technologies aimed is built to test at improving the energy performance of Britain’s ageing housing stock. energy efficiency The three-bedroomed semi-detached house, on the university’s “Green Close”, will replicate what the partners describe as “many of the ageing and energy inefficient E.On’s 2016 House domestic properties” in the UK.

The Guardian The government has set a target for new houses to be zero carbon by 2016 but industry experts acknowledge big efforts will be needed to improve the energy performance of 21 April 2008 the existing housing stock. http://www.guardian. “Homes are big contributors to the causes of climate change as they account for almost co.uk/business/2008/ a third of the carbon dioxide emitted in the UK,” said E.ON’s head of research and apr/21/construction. development, Dave Clarke. “Even with the government’s target for all homes to be zero energyefficiency/print carbon from 2016, we’ll need to retro-fit low carbon measures to existing homes in order to significantly reduce our carbon emissions.”

The house will use low-carbon technology to generate and manage energy within the house and will have an extension designed to make the maximum use of solar panels. Students will live in the house which is one of six being built on the campus.

More than 21m current homes - about 86% of the total - will still be in use in 2050.

Foster Abide by your council’s waste collection arrangements – or face a £100 fine. That was the message from DOE Minister, Arlene Foster, as she announced new powers for district Announces New councils. Waste Powers for Councils Councils can already issue notices setting out when and how waste should be left out for collection. Offenders can be prosecuted through the courts, with a maximum fine of £1,000. However, from 7 April councils will be able to issue fixed penalty notices of £100 for ‘low Department Of The level’ waste receptacle offences, such as putting the wrong materials in recycling bins. Environment The Minister said: “The new powers offer a quicker, more flexible, and more cost-effective 4 April 2008 alternative to expensive and time-consuming court prosecutions. They should also encourage higher recycling rates.” She added: “I would stress that this legislation will not compel individual councils to introduce fixed penalties - each council will be free to decide whether this system would suit its own local circumstances. Also, all councils, even those which do introduce this new enforcement system, will still be able to prosecute more serious offences through the courts.”

Further information on the Waste (Amendment) (Northern Ireland) Order 2007 can be found at: http://www.doeni.gov.uk/index/protect_the_environment/waste/waste_amendment_ order.htm

Is climate Scientists believe climate change could be behind the mystery of Lough Neagh’s change behind disappearing ducks. Lough Neagh’s More than 100,000 water birds used to flock to the huge lough around 20 years ago to lost ducks? overwinter, and now that figure has plummeted to 50,000 or 60,000 - a faster decline than elsewhere in the UK and Europe. Linda McKee, Environment Ian Enlander, head of the ornithology team on site designations with the Environment and Heritage Service, will reveal the shock drop in numbers at the EHS Research conference Correspondent which unveils the latest research carried out by the government body. The Environment Belfast Telegraph Minister Arlene Foster will host the conference at the Waterfront Hall. 16 April 2008 Delegates heard that Lough Neagh used to be one of the top 10 wetland sites in the UK for wintering birds but has declined to around 20th. Mr Enlander said reviews of bird ringing programmes suggest that whereas wildfowl once migrated from Iceland, the Baltic states and Europe to overwinter in Lough Neagh, many are now staying put. Some reports favour climate change as the main cause of this decline, while others suggest diminishing habitat quality in Lough Neagh could be to blame.

http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/news/local-national/article3614571.ece

NIEL NEWS May 2008 15 Environmental News

€614million EU Northern Ireland is to benefit from three new European Regional Development Fund Programmes which will continue until 2013. Programme Tops Trio Launched By Finance Minister, the Rt Hon Peter Robinson MP, MLA joined with the European Commissioner Robinson for Regional Policy, Danuta Hübner, in Belfast on the 14th April for the official launch.

The largest of the initiatives is the Sustainable Competitiveness Programme worth Department Of €614m. Mr Robinson said that the three schemes fully complement the aim of Finance And the Northern Ireland Executive’s Programme for Government to build a peaceful, fair and prosperous society with a growing dynamic and innovative economy. Personnel The Minister said: “The Sustainable Competitiveness Programme reflects the EU’s Lisbon 14 April 2008 agenda for jobs and growth which is exactly what we want for our own economy. Most of the Programme’s resources are devoted to innovation in line with the priority which the Executive gave to this area in the budget through the creation of the Innovation Fund.”

Further details on the ERDF Programmes can be found via DFP’s European Funding Website http://www.dfpni.gov.uk/index/finance/european-funding

Protecting The World Health Day 2008, held on 7 April, focused on climate change and health. Climate change is a growing priority for WHO and will also be an increasing focus for the health from WHO European Healthy Cities Network. Given this focus, which also was a key theme in climate change our recent lecture series ‘A New Vision for Health,’ Belfast Healthy Cities would like to - World Health highlight their work in this field. Day 2008 Keynote speaker at the Climate Change and Health lecture was Tanja Wolf from the WHO European Centre for Environment and Health in Rome, a member of the team Belfast Healthy behind Al Gore that won the Nobel Peace Prize in 2007. Planners, health and council representatives gathered a Belfast Castle where they learnt how extreme temperatures Cities -high and low -could result in increased mortality and how global warming may boost salmonella and food poisoning incidence. Predictions were that the temperature could rise by four degrees and that drier conditions could reduce river water by up to 40% by 2075, affecting water quality and water availability.

Ms Wolf highlighted that if the health system was to exercise its stewardship it would have to collaborate with climatologists and planners in land use and urban design, and to prepare communities and cities against the growing health risks of climate change. Ms Wolf also said she believes by identifying ways to reduce factors of climate change and helping populations deal with the risks and threats posed by climate change could lead to a greater sense of security control and result in improved population health. She stressed that the health sector needed to be at the heart of this.

All presentations are available at http://www.belfasthealthycities.com/.

Local The next council elections are to be postponed for two years until 2011, Secretary of State Shaun Woodward MP has confirmed. The decision follows a request from Environment Government Minister Arlene Foster MLA to delay the elections - scheduled for next year - until 2011 to elections to be reflect the new local Government structure. aligned with Shaun Woodward said, “I am committed to doing everything within my power to facilitate review of public local politicians in local government to work together for the people of Northern Ireland. administration The Executive has agreed to recommendations for the creation of new local government districts by 2011. I have agreed to the request from the Environment Minister to hold the next council elections in May 2011 so that they may be held under the new local Northern Ireland government structure. A postponement to May 2011 has been agreed to as an exceptional Office but justified step in the circumstances.” http://www.nio.gov.uk/local-government-elections-to-be-aligned-with-review-of-public- administration/media-detail.htm?newsID=15153

NIEL NEWS May 2008 16 Environmental News

Rapid Transit in Regional Development Minister, Conor Murphy MP MLA, has announced that a rapid Greater Belfast transit network for Belfast is viable. The Minister said “Transportation experts have concluded that the most appropriate DRD system for the city is a modern and high class bus based system with the option of migrating to light rail in the future should the demand increase. “Rapid transit is an exciting prospect for Belfast and I have recently visited the Netherlands and have seen examples of what could be possible here.”

“It is however, important to share the findings and recommendations of the studies with those who can assist me in reaching a final decision on what is the best system for Belfast. I therefore want to hear the views from a range of key interests taking into account all the facts of the studies including the likely number of passengers and costs and therefore intend to engage with members of the Regional Development Committee and subsequently with other parties whose contribution will be important and vital.”

The Programme for Government highlights rapid transit as a key priority with a commitment to start work on the first scheme by 2011. I have secured £111m for rapid transit and continue to explore opportunities to draw in additional private sector finance.” The report is available at http://www.drdni.gov.uk/issuesdetails.htm?id=iss30.

New Local A very special green space, in the heart of the Belfast Hills, celebrated th Nature Reserve its new status as a Local Nature Reserve on Saturday, 26 April. in the Belfast Nestled behind Divis and Colin Mountain, Slievenacloy Nature Reserve, managed by the Ulster Wildlife Trust, is a vast wildlife paradise of Hills! grassland, meadows, rush and heath and is home to many of Northern Ireland’s protected and rare species. This 125-hectare site, already Ulster Wildlife a designated ASSI, has also become an important asset to the local community as a place to enjoy, relax and discover and was recently Trust designated as a Local Nature Reserve by Lisburn City Council. Speaking at the event, the Mayor of Lisburn City Council, Cllr James Tinsley, said: “Slievenacloy has a wonderful mosaic of wildlife habitats and is greatly appreciated by local people both for its wildlife and as an informal outdoor recreation area. This will be Lisburn’s first Local Nature Reserve and is another example of how we are working with UWT to make Lisburn wildlife rich.” Heather Thompson, Chief Executive of the Ulster Wildlife Trust added: “There are only a small number of designated Local Nature Reserves in Northern Ireland, so today is a real celebration of what we’ve achieved since Slievenacloy first officially opened to the public Heather Thompson, CEO of the UWT in 2006. There are opportunities for local people to get involved in events at the nature presenting Lisburn Mayor, Cllr James Tinsley reserve, to learn new practical skills working alongside our staff and volunteers, and for with a wildlife gardening book, families and individuals to find out more about the very important wildlife found here. So, as a token of thanks if you’d like to get involved, we’d love to hear from you.” For further information, contact UWT on 028 4483 0282 or visit www.ulsterwildlifetrust.org.

Rare seahorses Colonies of rare seahorses are living and breeding in the River Thames, conservationists have revealed. breeding in Thames The short-snouted variety are endangered and normally live around the Canary Islands and Italy. Experts at London Zoo said the species had been found at Dagenham in east London and Tilbury and Southend 7 April 2008 in Essex, over the last 18 months. The revelation coincided with new laws which came into force on Sunday to give the creatures protected status.

Pic by Dan The seahorses, or Hippocampus hippocampus, are now protected under Sprawson/ZSL the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981. They are usually found in shallow muddy waters, estuaries or seagrass beds and conservationists said their presence in the Thames is another good sign that the water quality of the river was improving. The short-snouted seahorses have been found at three locations.

http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/pr/fr/-/1/hi/england/london/7333980.stm

NIEL NEWS May 2008 17 Environmental News

Foster In a statement to the Assembly, the Environment Minister Arlene Foster said that the Executive’s vision Announces for local government would mean a reduction in the Functions for number of councils but these would be responsible New Councils for added functions.

The Minister said: “Our vision is one of a strong, dynamic, local government creating Department of the communities that are vibrant, healthy, prosperous, safe, sustainable and have the needs Environment of all citizens at their core. Central to this is the provision of high quality, efficient services that respond to the needs of people and continuously improve over time. It reflects the strong desire that central and local government should work in partnership. 31 March 2008 “The current 26 council areas will be rationalised to create 11 new council areas. This strikes a balance between reducing some of the diversity between the existing areas in terms of population characteristics and rating wealth and promoting the ability of councils and their communities to identify and interact with each other.” http://www.doeni.gov.uk/announcement_31_march_2008.pdf EU-US Open The new EU-US Air Transport Agreement took effect on 30 March. For the first time, European airlines can fly without restrictions from any point in the EU to any point in the Skies: A new era US. “This marks the start of a new era in transatlantic aviation. This Agreement will bring in transatlantic more competition and cheaper flights to the US,” said Jacques Barrot, Vice-President of aviation starts the European Commission in charge of Transports. This agreement is the most ambitious air services deal ever negotiated. The two biggest aviation markets, encompassing 60% on 30 March of world traffic, will cooperate closer in all fields of aviation policy. In May 2008,the European Commission will engage in second-stage negotiations with the US. “A fully Brussels, 28 March Open Aviation Area between the EU and the US must remain our objective,” adds Vice- 2008 President Barrot. All EU airlines are now able to operate direct flights to the US from anywhere in Europe THE EUROPEAN and not just from their home country. The Agreement removes all restrictions on routes, COMMISSION prices, or the number of weekly flights. Many airlines will increase the number of flights and destinations on Sunday. Flights between London-Heathrow and the US, for example, Office in Northern will increase about 20% compared to April 2007. Ireland With about 50 million annual passengers between the EU and the US, the agreement covers by far the biggest international air transport market. The removal of all market access restrictions will stimulate competition. Prices for transatlantic flights are expected to fall. The benefits for consumers could reach up to €12 billion over the first five years. The Agreement could lead to the creation of 80 000 jobs on both sides of the Atlantic.

For the first time, this agreement establishes closer cooperation between the EU and the US to tackle new challenges, such as security or the environment. This will facilitate the operations for airlines and airports and reduce hassle for passengers.

This cooperation is already delivering tangible results for example in the field of environment: The Atlantic Interoperability Initiative to Reduce Emissions (AIRE) is a joint project to reduce the environmental impact of transatlantic flights. Greener transatlantic flights will reduce emissions per flight.

http://europa.eu/rapid/pressReleasesAction.do?reference=IP/08/474&format=HTML&a ged=0&language=EN&guiLanguage=en

Members of the community are being asked to come forward with ideas for improving 100 Small Steps community relations in Northern Ireland. The One Small Step Campaign, which was founded by senior figures from across society, has launched a public consultation with the objective of compiling 100 small steps towards a shared future for a book to be published One Small Step next year. The book will also showcase and celebrate ‘steps’ to combat prejudice that Campaign have already been taken by individuals or organisations. One Small Step Campaign Chairman, Trevor Ringland, explained: “A shared future where Northern Ireland can reach its full potential through everyone working together can only be achieved through the will of the community. Anyone who has an idea for a small step can submit it for consideration for the book.” Contact Caterina on 028 90749494 or email [email protected] or got to http://www.onesmallstepcampaign.org/knowledgebase/default.asp?itemId=26

NIEL NEWS May 2008 18 Publications

‘Our Environment, The report contains a set of 30 indicators, presented in six chapters, Our Heritage, Our covering air and climate, water, Future’ land and landscape management, State of the biodiversity, built heritage, and waste and resources. The indicators provide Environment a clear baseline and vehicle to promote Report for awareness of the environment to Northern Ireland business and the public, and to help improve attitudes and behaviour. The indicators have been designed to assist Environment and future comparison and measurement Heritage Service of our changing environment. 9th April 2008 Link to Report Summary: http://www.ehsni.gov.uk/ stateoftheenvironmentreportfornorthernirelandsummarydocument.pdf

The document has been put on the internet in sections – for full document list please go to: http://www.ehsni.gov.uk/other-index/news. htm?act=d&id=19243

Home Energy Energy efficiency in Northern Ireland homes has improved by 20% over the last decade equating to Report an average saving of £230 per year per household, according to a report published by the Housing Northern Ireland Executive in March. Housing Executive In environmental terms this means a reduction of almost 3 million tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions each year compared to 1996 levels. The report, however, also shows the number of those living in fuel poverty has risen to 240,000.

The Housing Executive, as Northern Irelands Home Energy Conservation Authority, is responsible for promoting energy efficiency improvements across the entire local housing stock, including privately owned homes as well as Housing Executive, housing association and privately rented homes.

Free energy advice is available through the Energy Saving Trust Advice Centre on 0800 512012. For information on the Warm Homes Scheme ring the Eaga Partnership on 0800181 667.

http://www.nihe.gov.uk/news/hecareport08.pdf

Fragile Earth Natural disasters, climate change, the exploitation of the world's resources and human development are changing our planet at a relentless pace. Now, using Publication Date: over 200 stunning images from the air, land and 03/03/2008 space, Fragile Earth brings together the most dramatic natural and man-made events. Striking views of our changing planet show the extraordinary effects of man Publisher: and nature. Each set of carefully selected 'before and HARPER COLLINS after' pictures is combined with detailed explanations allowing you to understand exactly what has happened PUBLISHERS to our planet in the past, and what is likely to happen in the future. The impacts that natural phenomena have on our planet are detailed in the first few chapters including details on tsunamis, volcanoes and tornadoes.

http://www.guardianbookshop.co.uk/BerteShopWeb/viewProduct. do?ISBN=9780007266807

NIEL NEWS May 2008 19 Consultations

Consultations (recent and ongoing) relevant to the sector

Consultation Response Organisation Response Contact Details by NIEL Date Consultations shaded in grey were included in a previous issue The Draft Quality of Bathing No DOE 9 May rBWD 1 consultation.pdf Water (Northern Ireland) Regulations 2008

All-Island Animal Health and No DARD 4 June John Terrington Welfare Strategy AHWS Consult

Wind energy development Yes DOE - EHS 5 June Stephen Hamilton in Northern Ireland’s www.planningni.gov.uk Landscapes: Draft Supplementary Planning Guaidance to accompany PPS 18: Renewable Energy

Review of the Wildlife Order Yes DOE 6 June Chris Savage 1985 Consultation Review of Wildlife Order.pdf

Review of Old Mineral Yes DOE 4 July Margaret Garrett Permissions- Environmental http://www.doeni.gov.uk/foi_details. Impact Assessment: htm?docid=4820 consultation paper [email protected] Sustainable Development Yes NIAUR 1 August Sarah Brady The Regulator’s Role [email protected] NIAUR Consult Rapid Transit in Greater Yes DRD No official http://www.drdni.gov.uk/ Belfast closing issuesdetails.htm?id=iss30 date Rural Champion Yes DARD ? ?? due to be launched May 1st

Consultations - Responses

Proposals to Key points: • NIEL feels that these proposals will help address the issues facing our historic amend the Historic buildings in Northern Ireland and encourage their rapid introduction. Buildings Grant- • We feel that these proposed changes will encourage greater protection of historic aid scheme and buildings, particularly extending grant aid to grade B2, increasing the level of aid to 35%, the allowance of preventive maintenance and the expansion of eligible new proposals elements. for funding non- • We believe that the Building Preservation Trusts should be supported and that government these Trusts have done and continue to do exemplary work. • Accommodating ‘single project’ BPTs should be ensured. organisations • Administration of the scheme by the Architectural Heritage Fund would seem very appropriate. Built Heritage • The list of criteria seems appropriate, although further clarity is required on the Directorate, EHS meaning of ‘gainshare’.

Response Date: 20 April 2008

NIEL NEWS May 2008 20 Consultations - Responses

Building Key Points: • NIEL welcomes the progression of the Building Regulations (Amendment) Bill to Regulations the formal Committee Stage. We welcome the efforts of the Finance and Personnel (Amendment) Bill: Committee to involve wider stakeholders in their consideration of the Bill. Committee Stage • We feel that Enhanced Building Regulations will play a vital part in reducing Northern Ireland’s carbon footprint and in ensuring wider environmental, social Consultation and economic sustainability for Northern Ireland. • Building regulations should ensure the built environment can deliver and adapt Finance and to the future through the provision of low, and eventually zero, carbon buildings. • The encouragement of renewable heat sources, such as geothermal or biomass, Personnel Committee and development of CHP as a significant source of energy for either business or domestic use, should be an important element of the Building Regulations. Response Date: 16 • NIEL feels that there is still a great deal to do in NI with regard to energy efficiency. Recent improvements to Part F of the Building Regulations are welcome but must April 24 2008 now be improved further. • Decentralised systems can be much more efficient, especially when there are local markets for heat and electricity. Smaller generating units with more diverse fuel supplies could improve Northern Ireland’s energy security and provide a vital income for a number of people. • The UK Government’s policy of ensuring that all new homes are zero carbon from 2016 is a measure that NI should also adopt. • Policy could drive a market for onsite renewables from 2016, a significant market for Northern Ireland companies. However, the capacity of the microgeneration industry must be developed now and that it will require support to drive innovation and competitiveness. • NIEL believes that Peter Robinson’s decision not to pursue mandatory microgeneration limits the development of renewable technologies and perhaps energy efficiency in Northern Ireland. • The rest of the UK and the Republic of Ireland are intent on improving their building standards and we should not lag further and further behind. We hope the Minister reconsiders his decision regarding mandatory microgeneration. • This is the time to raise housing standards, reduce fuel costs in the new build sector and encourage the next wave of successful Northern Ireland companies.

Conferences

OTHER BORDERS Derry Well Woman on behalf of the Cross Border Women’s Health Network is hosting an international conference on women’s health in May 2008. The conference is entitled Other Borders. The aim is to make a health impact by raising awareness International and opening up the debate on the need to improve health status and reduce health Women’s Health inequalities through focusing on the following themes: Conference in • Women and exclusion • Maintaining women’s roles in determining health and well-being when Derry societies move from conflict to post-conflict • Meeting health needs on a cross border basis The Everglades Hotel, Concessionary rate applies to individuals and community & voluntary groups only. Derry, Northern There is a limit on the number of concessionary places on offer - book early to avoid Ireland disappointment. You must enclose payment with your booking form. Cheques/Bank drafts (Euro or Sterling) should be made payable to Derry Well Woman, Derry Visitor & Convention Bureau, of Derry City Council, are happy to help with any May 29th to May 30th queries you might have for your stay, accommodation requirements etc. They can 2008 be contacted on 02871 377 577 or www.derryvisitor.com

NIEL NEWS May 2008 21 Environmental Events

Have an event to plug? Why not publicise it, free of charge, on our online events calendar?

Simply click on www.nienvironmentlink.org/events/add.asp and add the details.

Date Event Organiser Venue Contact

Events shaded in grey were included in a previous edition

Sunday 4th Annual Bluebell and Spring Walk Colin Glen Trust Colin Glen Forest 028 9061 4115 May 2-4pm Come and experience the mass of Park [email protected] Bluebells and wild garlic on the Colin www.colinglentrust.org Glen Forest floor. A guided walk for all the family. Admission Adult £2, Child £1. Sunday 4th Dawn Chorus at Bog Meadows Ulster Wildlife Trust Bog Meadows 028 4483 0282 May 7am-9am Nature Reserve Belfast [email protected] Celebrate International Dawn www.ulsterwildlifetrust.org Chorus Day on a guided walk around this Local Nature Reserve, with bird expert Aidan Crean on hand to reveal the wonderful sounds of the many resident and migrant birds. Bring binoculars if you have them. Admission free to members, non-members Adult £2, Child £1. Sunday 4th Dawn Chorus at Delamont Ulster Wildlife Trust Delamont Country 028 4483 0282 May 6am – Country Park – Killyleagh in conjunction with Park, Killyleagh [email protected] 8.30am Celebrate International Dawn Down District Council www.ulsterwildlifetrust.org Chorus Day – learn to recognize birds from their song on a guided walk around the park, followed by tea and scones in the Heron’s Nest. Bring binoculars if you have them. Admission free to members, non- members Adult £2, Child £1. Sat 10th May Behind the Garden Wall The National Trust Rowallane Garden 028 9751 0131 10.30am An extra special walk with the rowallane@nationaltrust. Head Gardner who will lead a walk org.uk explaining the work in up keeping www.nationaltrust.org.uk this historic garden, the global threats and the future conservation projects. Includes light lunch. Booking essential. Price Adult £10. Sat 10th May Cave Hill Clean Up Belfast Hills Meet at Belfast 028 9029 1357 2-5pm Join the Cave Hill Conservation Partnership Castle [email protected] Campaign as they clean up the www.belfasthills.org Cave Hill. Please remember to wear suitable outdoor footwear and clothing. Sun 11th May Lagan Valley Regional Park at Grassroots Drumbridge, 028 9058 0339 10am Drumbridge Conservation Group Ballyskea, Lisburn [email protected] Himalayan Balsam is an introduced plant which spread aggressively and displaces other native vegetation. We will be pulling out young Balsam plants before they can seed. Leader Anne Hardcastle. Fri 16th May How to extend Historic Buildings Ulster Architectural Markethill Court 028 9055 0213 10am – 15.30 The listed Markethill Courthouse is Heritage Society House [email protected] pm the venue for this event which, prior www.uahs.org.uk to its rescue by Markethill District Enterprises, featured in the UAHS’s first volume of ‘Buildings at Risk’. Consarc Design Group achieved a small extension on a tight site to accommodate a nursery school and to help provide a sustainable future for the listed building. After lunch we will visit nearby Marlacoo House. This B1 listed building had an extension added in 2007 which demonstrates how private owners can improve the aspect of a house while maintaining its integrity. Price £40, £30 for Members. NIEL NEWS May 2008 22 Environmental Events

Date Event Organiser Venue Contact

Sat 17th – Grand Garden and Craft Fair The National Trust Mount Stewart 028 4278 8387 Sun 18th May Craft stalls, floral festival, family mountstewart@nationaltrust. 10am-6pm entertainment, music and Mount org.uk Stewart plant sales with a plant www.nationaltrust.org.uk clinic and swap shop. Adult £7, Child £3.50, Family £17.50, Members free. Sat 17th May River Monitoring Training Antrim Borough Six Mile Water, Elaine Upton or Ruth Wilson 10am – Ballinderry Fish Hatchery Ltd Council Antrim 028 9446 3113 12noon Freshwater Bug Sampling will www.antrim.gov.uk provide equipment, training and support for those who wish to help monitor the health of the Six Mile Water. The session will include surveying for aquatic insects, such as mayflies, which are excellent indicators of environmental change and a river’s health. No previous experience necessary. Training is free of charge and suitable for all abilities – no previous experience or equipment is necessary. It may also be suitable for children over 8 years, who must be accompanied by an adult at all times. Please bring boots and a waterproof coat. Sat 17th May Food for Free Larne Borough Council Carnfunnock 028 2827 0541 2.30pm If you got lost in the woods today, Country Park [email protected] do you think you could find food to survive? Join herbalist Marion Partridge for a short walk and learn how to harvest supplies safely from nature growing in the park to make teas, sauces and salads. There will even be a unique demonstration and tasting session of traditional nettle soup. Booking advisable. Price Adult £1.50, Child £1. Thur 22nd May Primrose, Squill & Early Purples The National Trust White Park Bay 028 9751 0721 2-4.30pm In celebration of International www.nationaltrust.org.uk Biodiversity Day join the National Trust warden for an insight into the flora and fauna around White Park Bay. Meet at White Park Bay car park. Adult £5, Child £2.50. Sat 24th May Of Mottes and Men Lagan Valley Regional Meet at Shaws 028 9049 1922 11am Join the Lagan Valley Regional Park Bridge www.laganvalley.co.uk Park Ranger Service and discover some of the Mottes and Raths of the Lagan Valley. The walk will be themed around the significant local and natural history of the area. Sun 25th May Plant Fair The National Trust The Argory, Moy 028 8778 4753 12noon – Plants for sale and garden [email protected] 5.30pm workshops. Normal admission, www.nationaltrust.org.uk members free. Sun 25th May Wildflower Nursery at Grassroots Knockbracken 028 9058 0339 10am Knockbracken Conservation Group [email protected] Various activities to support the growing of native plants will be undertaken at CVNI’s wildflower nursery at Knockbracken. Leader Steve Clarke. Sun 25th May Birds of the Boglands The National Trust Divis and the Black 028 9082 5434 10am-1pm Celebrate Wildlife Week and avail of Mountain [email protected] this opportunity to learn more about www.nationaltrust.org.uk the birds of the boglands around Divis. Price Adult £3, Child £1, Member Adult £2, Child £0.50.

NIEL NEWS May 2008 23 Environmental Events

Date Event Organiser Venue Contact

Mon 26th May Lough Erne Cot Trips The National Trust Crom, Upper 028 6773 8118 2-6pm Cruise around the Lough in Crom’s Lough Erne, [email protected] 100 year old traditional craft. Newtownbutler www.nationaltrust.org.uk Adult £3.50, Child £2. Sat 31st May Summer Talk and Tour of Belfast Belfast City Council Belfast Castle 028 9077 6925 10.30am Castle www.belfastcity.gov.uk/parks Re-live the atmosphere of days gone by with an illustrated talk depicting the various stages of Belfast Castle’s development. Complimentary refreshments provided. Admission free, booking essential. Sat 31st May Family Fun Day Environment & Roe Valley 028 7772 2074 12-4pm Adventure and outdoor activities. Heritage Service www.ehsni.gov.uk Join in the fun in Roe Valley Country Park. Activities include canoeing, archery and orienteering. Booking essential, admission free. Sat 7th June Invasive Species Day (EHS) Antrim Borough Six Mile Water, Elaine Upton or Ruth Wilson 11am–3pm Alien invaders on the river bank!! Council Antrim 028 9446 3113 Find out who they are, how they www.antrim.gov.uk affect our local biodiversity and what we can do to help. Then, lend a hand to map, monitor and control some of the invasive plant species in the area. Lunch will be provided. Sat 7th June Drumkeeragh Forest Mourne Heritage Trust Drumkeeragh Forest 028 4372 4059 10am Explore tranquil Drumkeeragh Car Park, Dromara [email protected] Forest, see the magnificent www.mourne.live.com panoramic views of the surrounding countryside and learn about the history of forest plantations in the Mourne & Slieve Croob. 4 mile walk taking approx 3 hours. Price £7 Sun 8th June Smugglers Way Mourne Heritage Trust Bloody Bridge Car 028 4372 4059 10am Traverse the High Mournes, Park, Newcastle [email protected] retracing a route believed to have www.mourne.live.com been frequented by smugglers of yesteryear. Visit key stash sites en-route, including caves on Leganabruchan.. 8 mile walk approx 6 hours. Price £7 Sun 22nd June Nature Trail Walk Colin Glen Trust Colin Glen Forest 028 9061 4115 2-4pm Come and lean about Colin Glen Park [email protected] Forest Park’s ecosystems and www.colinglentrust.org the wildlife it supports. Guided by wildlife expert Paul Bennett, the event provides the perfect opportunity to see Colin Glen Forest Parks’ beautiful natural setting and spot as much wildlife as possible. Sat 12th – Sun National Archaeology Week Council for British More details will 020 7820 5986 30th July National Archaeology Week is a Archaeology follow http://www.britarch.ac.uk/ unique chance to discover and naw/index.html explore the archaeological heritage of the United Kingdom. During this NINE DAY event, which will run from 12th–20th July, you can take part in excavation open days, hands-on activities, family fun days, guided tours, exhibitions, lectures, ancient art and craft workshops and much, much more. Events will be taking place all over England, Wales, Northern Ireland and Scotland. Details of events taking place in 2008 will be placed on this webpage in Spring 2008.

NIEL NEWS May 2008 24 Training & Resources

Waste & WRAP offers a wide range of training courses to enhance skills and encourage good practice. Places on residential courses are open to local authority recycling managers Resources and officers, staff from not-for-profit or community schemes and private waste Programme management companies who are working with local authorities to manage, plan or promote recycling schemes. New dates are now available to view on the WRAP website for the following courses:- • Recycling Managers Training Course - Phase 1 • Recycling Managers Training Course - Phase 2 • Waste Prevention • Recycling in Schools • Monitoring and Evaluation • Recycle Now Design • Working with the Community Sector

For more information, course outlines, booking Terms and Conditions, course fees and an application form, visit the http://www.wrap.org.uk or email [email protected]. Further dates will be released on our website when confirmed. Managing Difference

Volunteer Development Agency How to Welcome Diversity in your Volunteer Programme - Focus on Disability A special training event for those who want to diversify their volunteer teams.

Tuesday 3 June “By 2010 less than 20% of the UK working population will be white, male, non- 2008 9.30 - 4.30 disabled and under the age of 45” (Government’s National Statistics Office Workforce Demographics for 2010). Venue: Belfast This session (the first in a series of workshops to be delivered by the Agency in relation to diversity) will explore how to effectively involve and support volunteers who have a disability, exploring different areas of disability such as sensory, physical, mental health and learning difficulties.

For more information tel: 028 9023 6100, Email [email protected], or website www.volunteering-ni.org

The Organic May 10 Sat Growing Herbs – an introduction Centre 10 Sat Creative Silk Painting Workshop 17 Sat Discover Wild Herbs – walk and workshop Courses May/June 17 Sat Energy Conservation 2008 18 Sun Gardening for Wildlife 24 Sat The Complete Polytunnel Course Day 2 www.theorganiccentre.ie 24 Sat Poultry for the Home 25 Sun Grow Organic – Cook Organic Day 2 31 Sat The Complete Organic Garden Course Day 5 31 Sat Permaculture Garden Design – an introduction June 7 Sat Sustainable House Design and Construction 7 & 8 Sat/Sun Dry Stone Wall Construction (2-day course) The Environment 2008 Open Course Programme: Summer Courses - BOOK NOW!

Council 20-22 May - Practical Facilitation Skills and Principles: the original TEC foundation course Better conversations, 6 June Evaluating Engagement better decision Contact www.the-environment-council.org.uk / [email protected] making... Telephone: Winsome Grigor - 0207 632 0108 NIEL NEWS May 2008 25 Funding

Community Disability Action is currently offering grants towards the cost of improving access to community buildings in Northern Ireland. The aim of the Access Grants Community Access Grants Scheme, supported by the Planning Service, is to help improve access to existing facilities provided by voluntary Nationwide and community organisations and, thereby, promote participation in Community and community life by people with disabilities. Heritage Awards Examples of eligible works include providing wider car parking spaces, widening doorways, providing handrails etc. The grant covers 50% of the total cost of the eligible work and in certain circumstances, the grant may also cover 50% of the Disability Action professional fees incurred.

The maximum total grant is £2,000.

Contact Disability Action’s Access Officer on 028 9029 7880 or email kevinp@ disabilityaction.org

Ecominds Thanks to the Big Lottery Fund and their Changing Spaces programme, Mind has been Mind announced as an award partner to run an open grant scheme funding projects around England over the next five years. These projects will integrate mental health service users into the community via the delivery of environmental projects conducive to good mental and physical health.

Ecominds application forms are distributed from the Big Lottery Fund call centre, or download one from the Ecominds website. The scheme is not yet live. We will publish when the scheme opens here in NIEL news but you can a direct email if you log onto the website: www.ecominds.org.uk

NICVA Just a reminder that NICVA have some very good fundraising publications available Fundraising Writing Applications - a beginners guide Advice Note Putting together a fundraising pack Series National Lottery Corporate European Union Local Strategy Partnerships Awards International Independent Trusts Central Government Local Government Education and Library Boards Health and Social Care Groups Guide to Planning Fundraising Events A to Z of fundraising ideas

To obtain copies of these advice notes you can download them from the Grant Tracker website on www.grant-tracker.org/index.cfm/section/General/key/FASadvice or hard copies can be posted free of charge from NICVA by calling 028 9087 7777 and asking for Georgie Finlay.

Sainsbury Family Each year the trustees of the Woodward Charitable Trust set aside funds for summer Charitable Trusts play schemes for children between the ages of 5-16 years. The deadline is Friday 30 May 2008. Woodward Contact: [email protected] Charitable Trust Log onto their website for further information: http://www.woodwardcharitabletrust. Playschemes org.uk

NIEL NEWS May 2008 26 Recruitment

EnviroCentre EnviroCentre can offer applicants an extremely diverse and exciting portfolio of projects as well as attractive salaries and an active input into the company’s development. Any enquiries should be directed to jobs@ envirocentre.co.uk

Ecologist - Glasgow / EnviroCentre are seeking to recruit an ecologist into our rapidly growing Ecology Stonehaven team. Applicants should have a relevant degree qualification, proven experience of undertaking ecological field surveys and good report writing skills.

Applicants should have excellent motivation and enthusiasm for the subject and be looking for an opportunity to develop their skills and forge specialist capabilities. The role will involve field surveying, data processing, management and analysis and report writing.

Closing Date: Open

Environmental EnviroCentre are seeking to recruit environmental consultants with 3+ years experience to our office based at the Daresbury Innovation Centre to deliver our forward Engineers / portfolio of interesting and technically challenging projects. Our multi-disciplinary Scientists - team brings together policy, ecology, hydrology, geology, environmental monitoring, Daresbury, nr waste management, chemistry and engineering skills. Candidates will be expected to demonstrate a wide understanding of environmental issues and a developed specialism. Warrington Closing Date: open

Senior Sustainable Envirocentre is seeking to recruit a Senior Sustainable Construction consultant Construction to join its growing development services team in driving forward its expanding portfolio of large scale projects – see latest news on this website Professional, Location TBC Candidates should have 5+ years experience, and a proven track record in environmental management within the construction industry. This could include advising on materials resource efficiency practices and/or the incorporation of renewable energy systems.

Closing date: Open

Charity Bank We are looking for freelance field officers to support our work in Northern Ireland. These Freelance Field positions will be home-based and both voluntary Support and per diem paid positions are available. We are looking for people with strong experience of lending, assistance or management in a charity or small business and an interest in social Closing date: 14 May justice is essential. 2008 To apply call 0844 880 5159 or visit http://www.communityni.org/

Farming and FWAG NI is looking for a part-time administrative assistant to undertake 16-30 hours per week (depending Wildlife Advisory on which best suits the most suitable candidate). Group NI Someone with a keen interest in agriculture and nature conservation. and willing to learn new skills such as GIS mapping, event organisation, newsletter preparation, Part-time membership management, etc. Administrative Assistant http://www.fwag.org.uk/employees/job-vacancies.htm

NIEL NEWS May 2008 27 Northern Ireland Environment Link (NIEL) is the networking and forum body for organisations interested in the environment of Northern Ireland. It represents 49 full members (voluntary organisations) and 53 associate members (statutory organisations, companies or individuals). Full members collectively represent over 90,000 individuals, 255 subsidiary groups, have an annual turnover of over £42 million and manage over 230,000 acres of land. Members are involved in environmental issues of all types and at all levels from the local community to the global environment.

Full Members

Action Renewables ARENA Network Belfast Hills Partnership British Council Northern Ireland Bryson Charitable Group Campaign for the Protection of the Countryside NI Cavehill Conservation Campaign Chartered Institute of Environmental Health Colin Glen Trust Community Technical Aid Conservation Volunteers Northern Ireland Council for British Archaeology Ecoseeds Farming and Wildlife Advisory Group Northern Ireland Federation of City Farms & Community Gardens Field Studies Council Forest of Belfast Grassroots Conservation Group Green Action Belfast Greencastle Area Residents Group Institute of Public Health in Ireland International Tree Foundatiion Northern Ireland Lough Neagh Partnership Monkstown Community Forum Mountaineering Council of Ireland Mourne Heritage Trust NI Birdwatchers Association NI Cycling Initiative NI Energy Agency NI Tenants Actin Project NI Rural Development Council Rural Community Network Speedwell Trust Sustainable NI Sustrans Talnotry Avian Care Trust The National Trust The Organic Centre The Rural College Tidy Northern Ireland Ulster Angling Federation Ulster Archaeological Society Ulster Architectural Heritage Society Ulster Coarse Fishing Federation Ulster Federation of Rambling Clubs Ulster Society for the Protection of the Countryside Wildfowl and Wetlands Trust Woodland Trust WWF Northern Ireland