MCS calls for more resources protect Welsh seas for the future
MCS is among a group of five environmental organisations in Wales calling for sufficient resources to be allocated to implement ground breaking legislation to help protect Welsh seas and coast for the future.
November, is the second anniversary of the passing of the Marine and Coastal Access Act, which provided Welsh politicians with the tools needed to revolutionise management of Welsh seas for the future. Whilst progress in the implementation of the Marine Act has been made, the Wales Environment Link Marine Working Group is concerned that without sufficient resources or backing, the words will fail to become a reality.
Shadow Environment Minister Russell George AM said "The provision of the Marine Act was just the first step on the journey towards safeguarding our seas. It is important that these opportunities are seized to ensure our seas are sustainably managed for the future."
The group is calling for the provisions in the Marine Act to be used to their full effect to deliver real benefits for Welsh biodiversity. For example, if effectively implemented, the Marine Act provides for the introduction of new protected areas and marine plans, which will create areas where wildlife and habitats can recover and thrive again.
The Group held an event in the Senedd at Cardiff Bay, to explore progress in the implementation of the Act in Wales and invited Assembly Members to sign a Marine Declaration to show their support for the sustainable management of Welsh seas over the coming Assembly term. 22 AMs have signed to date.
MCS Wales Programme Manager, Gill Bell, a member of the Working Group, says: "MCS are keen to ensure that the Welsh Government undertakes it’s new commitments to ensure the marine environment is better protected and were thrilled by the number of Assembly Members who came and showed their support by signing the Marine Declaration.
Beth Henshall, another member of the group, said "We need to ensure that the marine environment remains high on the Welsh Government‟s agenda, attracting the resources needed to ensure that the new powers deliver improvements for marine wildlife, and society overall. The second anniversary of the Marine Act provides the occasion to reflect on achievements to date, and acknowledge the work that still needs to be done. It‟s clear that more effective management is urgently required".
The Marine Campaign is run by Wales Environment Link‟s Marine Working Group, which comprises representatives from the Marine Conservation Society RSPB Cymru, Wildlife Trusts Wales, WWF Cymru and National Trust.
