Greens Announce Biodiversity Funding for Wicklow Projects Protecting Nature

Green TD Steven Matthews has welcomed funding for nature projects provided by the Local Biodiversity Action Fund, announced by Green Minister Malcolm Noonan. This fund aims to support local groups and projects who carry out invaluable work in protecting nature and the environment. 5 Wicklow biodiversity projects from around the county have been successful in their applications for funding under this scheme:

• Brittas Bay Conservation Project

• County hedgerow survey

• Bat survey

• Restoration and enhancement of two ponds

• Campaign to encourage local biodiversity action

Speaking after the funding announcement, Deputy Matthews said:

“This is wonderful news for Wicklow and wonderful news for nature. Not only are we facing a climate crisis but also a biodiversity crisis and protecting the biodiversity in our planet is key to our survival. Protecting it needs to be integral to everything we do. Localised projects like these will raise awareness of the importance of natural assets like dunes and hedgerows in protecting our biodiverse species and ecosystems.

“I was delighted to work closely with my Green Party colleague Minister Malcom Noonan to secure this vital funding and I have taken great pleasure in showing him the incredible natural habitats and ecosystems which we are so fortunate to have in Wicklow. I have no doubt that this funding will go a long way towards helping the many brilliant projects around the county protect and restore out natural environment so it can be enjoyed by many generations to come.

“This funding is just the latest example of the Green Party leading the way in climate action and the protection of our environment. There can be no excuse for the conscious destruction of our natural ecosystems which play such a major part in our day to day lives. For years we have failed and neglected it but is not too late to act and restore our incredible natural world to its healthy and vibrant self. I look forward to working closely with these groups and seeing the brilliant work which they carry out”, Deputy Matthews concluded.