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EmailIphone Application    Posted: 10th September 2024
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Plan launched to protect North-East Atlantic seabirds
“There is sound scientific evidence that the documented declines in many of our marine birds are the result of human activities” – Matt Parsons.
Actions will be taken to reduce the impact of human activities.

An international action plan has been launched to stop the decline of North-East Atlantic seabird populations.

The Regional Action Plan for Marine Birds (RAP-Bird) has been agreed by OSPAR, the mechanism by which 15 governments and the European Union co-operate to protect the marine environment of the North-East Atlantic.

OSPAR's Quality Status Report 2023 revealed that the majority of seabirds are struggling, with widespread declines in both population and breeding productivity.

While climate change was identified as having the largest impact, the report found that other human activities including fishing, shipping, and renewable energy production also had significant impacts.

The aims of the new action plan include reducing the number of birds incidentally caught by the fishing industry, tackling the impact of offshore wind developments, and protecting breeding colonies from invasive predatory mammals.

Monitoring highly pathogenic avian influenza also forms part of the action plan. OSPAR will act as a forum for sharing best practice in monitoring the virus and responding to outbreaks. Other emerging diseases worldwide that could significantly impact wild birds will also be monitored.

The Joint Nature Conservation Committee (JNCC) has acted on behalf of the UK government during the development of the RAP-Bird and the organisation will be leading or co-leading four of the nine actions.

JNCC's Matt Parsons, who helped put together the RAP-Bird and will lead on flyways-scale conservation, said: “There is sound scientific evidence that the documented declines in many of our marine birds are the result of human activities.

“The good news is that through international collaboration - such as this ambitious OSPAR action plan – we can join forces across the region to apply our knowledge to improve the fortunes of these iconic species and the ecosystems they rely on.”

The full action plan can be read here.

Image © Shutterstock

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Central Qualifications to attend BVNA Congress

News Story 1
 Central Qualifications (CQ) is to host a stand at this year's BVNA Congress. The awarding body will be at Stand C9 from 11-13 October.

It will discuss changes to the qualifications strategy and some new qualifications, including a top-up course for equine veterinary care, so qualified veterinary nurses can broaden their skills.

Rachael Shepherd, education consultant at CQ, said: "We are looking forward to attending BVNA Congress this year. There are exciting times ahead, with a revamp to the VN qualifications and assessment strategy and the introduction of some new qualifications." 

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News Shorts
Northern Ireland chief vet warns of bluetongue risk

Following the detection of bluetongue virus serotype 3 (BTV-3) in England, Northern Ireland's chief veterinary officer has urged farmers to remain vigilant and source animals responsibly.

Brian Dooher said: "This confirmation in England is a stark reminder of the threat bluetongue presents to Northern Ireland.Whilst this finding in Norfolk is disappointing it is not unexpected giving the rising level of disease across several countries in Europe. Bluetongue does not affect human health or food safety, however an incursion to Northern Ireland would have a significant impact on livestock and the rural economy.

"I would like to remind all farmers of the importance of sourcing animals responsibly and ask that they maintain vigilance for signs of the disease reporting any suspicions to DAERA immediately."

Suspected cases of BTV-3 in Northern Ireland should be reported to the DAERA Helpline on 0300 200 7840 or by contacting the local DAERA Direct Veterinary Office.