DAERA Minister Andrew Muir has called for urgent action to protect sharks and seabirds as he launches a joint consultation to address the decline
DAERA Minister Andrew Muir has urged immediate action to address the decline of key marine predators, launching two consultations aimed at bolstering the conservation of seabirds and elasmobranchs (sharks, skates, and rays) in Northern Ireland’s waters.
The proposed Seabird Conservation Strategy and Elasmobranch Conservation Strategy are designed to protect these vulnerable species, while also enhancing the overall management of Northern Ireland’s marine environment. These strategies come in response to growing concerns over biodiversity loss and seek to harness wider environmental and societal benefits.
Speaking at the launch of the consultations, Minister Muir stressed the urgency of the situation: “Seabirds are vital indicators of ocean health and play a crucial role in marine food webs. Yet, their populations are in steep decline, facing threats such as habitat loss, climate change, and disease. If we don’t act now to strengthen their conservation, we risk losing these iconic species from our marine ecosystem permanently.”
The Seabird Conservation Strategy aims to tackle the pressures seabirds face by working closely with stakeholders who live and work in marine environments. This collaborative approach will help to ensure the strategy’s goals are achievable and impactful.
Simultaneously, the Elasmobranch Conservation Strategy seeks to protect sharks, skates, and rays—species that have seen a dramatic global decline over the past five decades. Some species, like the flapper skate, are now critically endangered.
Minister Muir highlighted Northern Ireland’s geographical importance for these species, serving as migratory corridors and key feeding and breeding grounds. He noted that “Sharks, skates, and rays are sensitive species that require well-managed conservation efforts to promote their recovery. This consultation offers a unique opportunity to improve our understanding of these creatures and implement effective conservation measures.”
Both consultations are open for public feedback until 16 December 2024, with the aim of finalising strategies that will deliver long-term benefits for marine biodiversity and Northern Ireland’s environmental heritage.
Minister Muir encouraged participation, stating, “I urge anyone with knowledge, experience, or interest in marine conservation to contribute to these consultations. Together, we can create strategies that will protect our marine species and ensure a healthier environment for future generations.”
The consultation documents and online questionnaires for the Seabird and Elasmobranch Conservation Strategies can be accessed on the DAERA website.
The questionnaires will remain available for twelve weeks, closing at 5 pm on 16 December 2024.