1 December 1999

Very Few People In NI Applying For Endangered Animal and Plant Licences

Only one hundred licences for importing endangered species are issued in Northern Ireland each year. However, the equivalent figure for the United Kingdom is 30,000. Is there much less trade in Northern Ireland, or do the 100 licenses represent the visible tip of a large iceberg?

That is the question being raised at a workshop in Spires Centre Belfast taking place today and tomorrow. The workshop is being organised locally by the Environment and Heritage Service on behalf of the Department of Environment, Transport and the Regions, which is the UK licensing authority.

Speaking at the workshop, DETR’s Julian Claxton said:

"Importing endangered animals or plants can only be done legally under licence in accordance with the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITIES).

"I commend EHS in organising this workshop, which brings together licensing authorities, police and environmental bodies from Great Britain and both sides of the Irish border. Together we can analyse problems and carve solutions while also raise awareness of CITIES.

"I am particularly concerned about the low numbers applying for licences in Northern Ireland. Perhaps these two days will help us find the reasons, and make more people aware of their responsibilities."

Notes To Editors

For further information contact DOE Press Office 01232 540013

Julian Claxton Head of UK CITIES Policy Branch DETR is available for interview on this subject. He can be contacted at Spires 01232 322284 or out of hours at the Travel Lodge 01232 333555.

 

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