Wilson embarks on fact finding Cairngorms National Park visit

Environment Minister Sammy Wilson today began a fact finding visit to the Cairngorms National Park in Scotland.

The Minister hopes the visit will inform his decision on whether or not he should recommend to Executive colleagues new legislation to establish national parks in Northern Ireland.

Mr Wilson explained: "I am going to Scotland to see for myself how a national park operates.

"I look forward to learning how the Cairngorms National Park Authority is working with local people, businesses and a range of organisations to address issues such as conserving and enhancing environmental and cultural heritage in the area, promoting local economic and social development and encouraging public enjoyment of the Park.

"During my visit, I also hope to talk to local farmers, landowners and businesses about their experience of having a national park.

“I have come to Scotland with an open mind on whether or not Northern Ireland should have national parks.

“Up until now the debate in Northern Ireland has focused on whether there should be a National Park in the Mournes, but there may be other areas which would be suitable.

“Before that, however, we need to think about what a National Park is and decide whether or not we want National Parks in Northern Ireland. And if so, what they would be like."

Cairngorms National Park was set up in 2003.

The Minister added: “Scotland’s National Parks are the only ones in the world which have an economic as well as an environmental purpose and I am intrigued to see how that balance has been struck.

“The Cairngorms also has many protected landscapes and habitats. Ospreys, wild cats and a range of other rare and protected species, live there. Its economy very much depends on its natural assets. I will be interested in seeing how visitors to the park are managed to make sure the area’s natural assets are also conserved."

Notes to Editors:

1. The Minister for the Environment is expected to bring his views about National Parks to the Executive after the summer 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 028 9054 0014 or out of office hours, contact the EIS Duty Press Officer on pager 07699 715 440 and your call will be returned.