A group of five environmental organisations in Wales is calling for sufficient resources to be allocated to implement ground breaking legislation to help protect our seas and coast for the future.
On 12th November, two years will have passed since the arrival of the Marine and Coastal Access Act, which provides 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 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.”
Beth Henshall, member of the Wales Environment Link Marine Working 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 Wales Environment Link Marine Working 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.
Earlier this week, the Group held an event in the Senedd at Cardiff Bay, to explore progress in the implementation of the Act in Wales. The Group 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.
The Group has attended a series of events across the summer as part of their ‘Summer of Seas’, aimed at celebrating Wales’ sensational seas. They have also organised a national marine photography competition, which has attracted entries from people both visiting and living in Wales, which have revealed some wonderful sights found around our shores. These included inquisitive seals, large spider crabs and curious creatures such as sea squirts and the sun fish. Swansea based marine biologist and one of the judging panellists, Judith Oakley said “There were some very creative and interesting entries in the photography competition which showcase the amazing richness of our unique Welsh seas and coastline. They also help to highlight the urgent and long overdue need for adequate protection for marine species and habitats.”
The Marine Campaign is run by Wales Environment Link‟s Marine Working Group, which comprises representatives from RSPB Cymru, Wildlife Trusts Wales, WWF Cymru, the Marine Conservation Society and National Trust.
