THE future of the wetlands in Ballybay was discussed at a day long conference on Friday last in the Derryvalley Wetlands Centre.

This is an important issue that has sparked national interest, with RTÉ’s Primetime covering the story in the past. Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government, John Gormley was there to address interested stakeholders at the opening of the forum. A number of local delegates, planners, surveyors, farmers and landowners were there to voice their interest and opinions.

Mayor of County Monaghan, Gary Carville has said that the conference sparked a “huge level of interest” in the local area.

“Minister Gormley said he has full confidence in Monaghan County Council and their initiatives and policies,” Mayor Carville commented. “We hope to have more resources made available from the Minister and his department.”

Mayor Carville went on to say that whilst many people held the wetlands in high regard there is a need for an education awareness programme on just how important of an asset the wetlands are.

The day was divided into four sessions entitled: The wonderful wetlands, Wetland functions, Fantastic Fens and Conservation issues and politics.

The conference, which is part of the County Monaghan Heritage Plan 2006-2010, heard the various options regarding the development of the wetlands. There were addresses from Simon Barron from the Botanical Environmental Conservation consultants about wetland habitats throughout the County of Monaghan. There was also an interesting address from Rory Callan about the role of the wetlands regarding flood protection.

The conference ended on a positive note those with an interest in the Wetlands hearing about the benefits of wetland conservation for the Craigavon Borough Council. Marcus Malley from the conservation service described the great work that has happened at the Oxford Island Discovery Centre close to Lough Neagh.