29 March 2011
This Section introduces a new statutory duty upon government departments and public bodies to take action to further the conservation of biodiversity so far as is consistent with the exercise of their functions. This supplements the commitment to protecting and enhancing biodiversity contained in the Northern Ireland Sustainable Development Strategy and aims to raise the profile and visibility of biodiversity as a natural part of decision-making in the public sector. In fulfilling this duty the public authorities are expected to have regard to the principles and actions contained in the Northern Ireland Biodiversity Strategy.