AQW 38469/22-27

Ms Kate Nicholl
Alliance Party
South Belfast

Tabled Date: 19/01/2026
Answered On Date: 02/02/2026
Priority Written: No

Question:
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.

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.