MLA Praises New Woodland Scheme

By Linda McKee

The North Down Ulster Unionist congratulated the Woodland Trust on creating 250 acres of new woodland in the province in the first phase of its ambitious Tree for All campaign.

He urged fellow MLAs to help boost Ulster’s sparse woodland cover by supporting the work.

A total of 25,000 people have helped green the environment by taking part in the programme.

Mr Cree said Northern Ireland currently ranks as one of the least wooded regions in Europe with total tree coverage of only 6%: “We need to do all we can to help environmental groups to motivate this and future generations,” Mr Cree said.

“I understand that government have committed to help increase tree coverage in Northern Ireland over the next 50 years. I would however suggest that plans should be brought forward to address this shortfall now. I will be taking steps to encourage my colleagues in the Northern Ireland Assembly to address this issue as a matter of priority.”

Mr Cree said it was only right to support the work of the Woodland Trust and others who work tirelessly to educate and motivate people to become more environmentally active.

He said: “By planting more trees we are actively addressing the serious impact of global warming as each tree planted significantly improves air quality by reducing CO2 emissions into the atmosphere.”

Patrick Cregg, of the Woodland Trust, thanked Mr Cree for his support. “When carried out as part of a large collective movement, tree planting can change whole landscapes, creating valuable habitats for wildlife. Through Tree For All we’re reaching out to our young people. We want every child to have the chance to plant a tree – we want to inspire them to grow up with a real love of nature and a willingness to act on its behalf.”

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