AQW 38469/22-27 Written question to the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs

To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs for an update on the progression of the Seabird Conservation Strategy and Action Plan, in relation to addressing biosecurity challenges for declining seabird populations.

Asked by Kate Nicholl MLA on 19 January 2026

  • Answered
  • Written
Tabled
19 January 2026
Answer due by
3 February 2026
Answered
2 February 202614 days after tabling
Department
Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs
Priority question
No

Answer

My officials have been updating the Seabird Conservation Strategy and Action Plan to reflect responses from the public consultation, and I hope to publish this in the spring, after which, focus will be on the co-delivery of actions with key stakeholders.

I am pleased to note the recent allocation of funding to the PEACEPLUS CMAP (Coastal Management and Adaptation Planning) project, which includes a dedicated work package for biosecurity measures targeting seabird colonies. This initiative will concentrate on Rathlin and Ballycastle, building upon the progress of the LIFE Raft project.

Official sources