People from all over Leitrim met in Drumshanbo on March 27th to form a Local Environmental Network for Leitrim. The participants came from all sections of the community – farmers,guesthouse providers, business people, scientists to name a few – to lend their support and thoughts as the Network came into being.
The meeting was opened by Michael McGovern of Leitrim PPN, who welcomed the large attendance, and co ordinated by Leslie O’Hora of Carrick on Shannon.
What is it About?
The Leitrim Local Environmental Network (LEN) will be part of a national umbrella group whose aims are to raise public awareness,engage in practical conservation work and campaigns whilst also lobbying for environmental and conservation issues at county and national level. It is an independent member group of Leitrim PPN like any other group.
The meeting was addressed by Catherine O’Toole who shared the experiences and success of other county networks. Catherine is a Development Officer with the Irish Environmental Network.
For more examples of what LENs have done in other counties see our article at https://www.leitrimppn.ie/leitrim-local-environmental-network/
What Are the Issues?
The meeting split into groups to brainstorm the challenges to sustainability and what actions could deliver results. The groups advised the following key areas of focus for Co. Leitrim:
- Native Trees
- Clean water
- Fish,wildlife
- Healthy soils
- Clean air
- Biodiversity
Other issues covered by participants
- Monoculture
- Recycling in communities
- Small scale farming not valued
- Biotanical species
- Need to retrain ALL TEACHERS in Environmental and Climate matters without delay
Other issues touched on……….self sufficiency….educating parents….schools……rewilding areas….organic….food markets…..fertilizer in food chain….
Arising Actions
The meeting called for an Environmental Officer to be appointed without delay by Leitrim County Council: this was unanimous. People expressed their shock that one was not already in place given the big threats to nature that face the county.
Next Meeting
Next meeting was agreed for April 24th to be held at the Mayflower in Drumshanbo.
See Also…https://www.leitrimppn.ie/leitrim-local-environmental-network/
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