Ian Duncan, the Conservative MEP for Scotland, has launched a consultation on the EU's plans to reform the Birds and Habitats Directives. The European Commission is reviewing the Directives, and Ian wants to hear from all interested parties across Scotland, be they a conservation group or industry.
The Directives were launched in 1992 and protect a range of Scotland’s rare species from Grey Seals to Ospreys, as well as areas such as the Upper Solway Flats in Dumfries.
Commenting, Ian said:
"As a member of the Environment Committee in the European Parliament, I will be examining the Commission's proposals in great detail, and want to make sure that my constituents have their say. That's why I am launching a short, focused consultation which will inform the position that the Parliament will ultimately take. The Commission announced this review under the banner of 'Smarter Regulation', which I applaud, but they have to get this right.
"Since 1992 much has changed in Scotland’s natural environment. The rise of renewables has brought new challenges for birds and wildlife, both onshore and off, climate change, species decline, and changing patterns of migration across Europe have altered the way our natural habitats are used.
"I want to hear the views of any person or organisation in Scotland who engages with our natural environment."
Ian's consultation will run from October 2015 until January 31st 2016.