The scheme aims to protect existing population numbers
A €25 million project aimed at supporting Ireland's most vulnerable birds has been launched in Offaly.
Agriculture Minister Charlie McConalogue is in Shannon Harbour today to reveal the Breeding Waders EIP, which strives to protect existing wader populations at key sites.
They've declined by as much as 98% in recent decades.
It's hoped the project will improve population numbers in the Shannon Callows in particular.
Agriculture Minister Charlie McConalogue says Irish Rural Link and farmers will be key in helping the scheme succeed:
Minister for Land Use and Biodiversity, Offaly Senator Pippa Hackett, said:
"I am hugely excited to be here in Shannon Harbour in County Offaly this morning for the launch of the Breeding Waders EIP.
We know how successful the locally led EIP model can be, with farmers coming together backed by expert advice to take targeted actions for biodiversity enhancement and to bring about meaningful landscape change.
We are supporting the Breeding Waders EIP with a €25 million budget and a world class project team, and I am really looking forward to following its progress over the coming years and, all going well, seeing much healthier breeding wader numbers in the Shannon Callows and beyond."
Ballycumber's Seamus Boland, CEO of Irish Rural Link, representing the Operational Group, added:
"Irish Rural Link is delighted to be leading on this new and exciting project.
This EIP-Agri project presents a unique opportunity for farmers, rural communities and stakeholders to work with the project team and partners in driving conservation efforts for Breeding Waders."
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