Sinn Féin MEP Lynn Boylan has welcomed official recognition from the European Parliament that the environment in Ireland knows no borders.
The Dublin MEP, and member of the EU’s Environment committee said:
“I’m delighted that the Environment Committee has adopted my amendment which highlights the unique situation of the environment in Ireland.
“The amendment, which I tabled in Irish, highlights that Ireland is a single ecological space – regardless of any border.
“Unfortunately, these spaces are each governed by different environmental laws.
“This means that British Government climate decisions have an impact on both Irish and EU wide environmental goals.
“I appreciate the other MEPs understanding the unique circumstances facing Ireland, and their acknowledgment of the important role of north-south bodies established by the Good Friday Agreement.
“These bodies are essential for tackling issues that impact communities everywhere on our Island.
“I hope this recognition can provide momentum for better cooperation between these groups, and the EU to help us protect our environment on both sides of the border.”
Notes to editor:
MEP Boylan’s amendment was included in an opinion of the Environment Committee, which dealt with the environmental impacts of the post-Brexit trade agreement between Britain and the EU.
Text of the amendment adopted by the Parliament’s Environment Committee:
Stresses that the island of Ireland is a single ecological unit; recalls that UK environmental policies impact the environment on the entire island of Ireland and therewith also the achievement of the EU’s environmental protection goals; emphasises the need for increased cooperation on environmental issues through the institutions established under the Good Friday Agreement.
