Cairngorms National Park staff brief minister

Environment Minister Sammy Wilson today heard at first hand how a National Park could be run during a visit to the Cairngorms in Scotland.

The Minister received briefings from the chief executive of the Cairngorms National Park Authority Jane Hope, the convener and from members of the board and staff at the Cairngorms National Park Authority shortly after his arrival in Grantown On Spey on the first day of his visit.

Mr Wilson said: "Scotland's National Parks are the only ones in the world which have an economic as well as an environmental purpose and the discussions I have had have given me an insight into how a balance can be struck between these two objectives.

"I have also been learning how Cairngorms National Park Authority is dealing with issues such as sustainable development, affordable housing, community engagement and rural diversification.

"This will be extremely valuable when on my return I consider if a national park is needed in Northern Ireland."

During the two day visit, the Minister will meet business people, landowners and farmers living and working in the National Park.

Mr Wilson will also tour an area of the park tomorrow, looking at how the region accommodates tourists, how the business and farming communities are flourishing and how affordable housing has been delivered.

The Minister added: "I have been hugely impressed so far by the beauty of the Cairngorms, by the professionalism and enthusiasm of the National Park Authority and its staff and by the way the authority engages with and works with local landowners, businesses and communities.

"I look forward to further discussions tomorrow and to seeing for myself how the National Park operates."

Notes to Editors:

1. The Environment Minister is expected to bring his views about national parks to the Executive after the recess.

2. If the Executive does decide to bring forward legislative proposals for national parks, two stages will be needed. Primary legislation will be needed to allow Northern Ireland to have national parks. After that further legislation will be required to designate any specific area as a national park.

3. For further information about the Cairngorms National Park, visit www.cairngorms.co.uk

4. For media enquiries please contact DOE Press Office 02890 540014 or out of office hours, contact the EIS Duty Press Officer on pager 07699 715 440 and your call will be returned.