Ms Annett has been involved in developing ways to raise awareness on biodiversity generally and to promote biodiversity widely throughout Northern Ireland. She has also carried out various consultancy assignments of relevance to biodiversity.
The Minister said: "The Biodiversity Group is a non-statutory body which plays an important role in advising government on nature conservation. It monitors progress in meeting the objectives of the Northern Ireland Biodiversity Strategy and in promoting biodiversity generally."
He went on to say: "Judith’s wide range of skills and experience in biodiversity issues will prove invaluable and I welcome this appointment. Her willingness to devote time and expertise to this group is commendable and I am sure that biodiversity in Northern Ireland will benefit during Judith’s term as chair of the Biodiversity Group.”
The Minister also took the opportunity to pay tribute to the outgoing Chair of the Northern Ireland Biodiversity Group, Dr Bob Brown. Mr Poots said: “Bob has, through his boundless energy and commitment to nature conservation, led the Northern Ireland Biodiversity Group since its inception six years go.
"Due to his efforts, many departments and public bodies have a better understanding of the benefits of biodiversity and are undertaking practical actions to promote nature conservation. I commend Bob for his dedication and hard work in leading the Biodiversity Group and I wish him well in all of his future endeavours.”
Notes to editors:
- The Northern Ireland Biodiversity Group (NIBG) was established in 2004 under Article 3 of The Nature Conservation and Amenity Lands (Northern Ireland) Order 1985 and is comprised of representatives from local government, farming, business interests as well as environmental NGOs.
- The NIBG plays an important role in monitoring government’s progress in meeting the objectives of the Northern Ireland Biodiversity Strategy.
- In October 2009, the NIBG published its second report on the delivery of the biodiversity targets
- The Chair of the Northern Ireland Biodiversity Group is a paid appointment and receives remuneration of £9,700 per annum as well as travelling and out-of-pocket expenses. The appointment is for a three year term.
- The appointment has been made on merit and political activity played no part in the selection process. However, in accordance with the original Nolan recommendations, there is a requirement for the political activity of an appointee to be published. The appointee has declared that no political activity has been undertaken during the past five years.
- All media enquiries should be directed to the DOE Press Office on 028 9054 0003. Out of office hours, please contact the duty press officer on pager 07699 715 440 and your call will be returned.
