Offaly launches first ever Biodiversity Action Plan
Offaly County Council made a little bit of history last week with the launch of the county's very first Biodiversity Action Plan.
The plan was launched on Friday last at an event which was another first for Offaly - the county's very first Biodiversity Conference. Among the over 150 delegates in attendance were community leaders, ecological experts and nature conservationists. The guest speakers outlined the range of initiatives underway and planned in Offaly.
The conference was opened by Ricky Whelan, Offaly County Council’s Biodiversity Officer, with Leas Cathaoirleach Cllr. Oliver Bryant, and Chief Executive Anna Marie Delaney of Offaly County Council, officially launching the plan.
The Offaly Biodiversity Action Plan sets out 53 targeted actions—from fighting invasive species to restoring wetlands,and is a truly collective effort shaped by local communities, experts and environmental organisations. It also aligns with national policies and global goals while tackling Offaly’s unique challenges.
Chief Executive of Offaly County Council Anna Marie Delaney underscored the significance of the plan for future generations and said it was "a testament to collaboration."
She added that the local authority had taken a decisive step forward in ensuring nature in Offaly "thrives for generations" with the launch of the plan. "£It reflects the voices of community groups, farmers, landowners, agencies, and experts, and it outlines how we will build climate resilience, combat invasive species, and reconnect fragmented ecosystems.”
The sell-out conference, which was attended by over 150 people, heard from a number of inspiring speakers on key issues impacting Offaly’s biodiversity. Attendees were also treated to some magnificent displays by nature champions
Offaly County Council expressed a special word of thanks to the Heritage Council for their support for the event, and for their assistance in developing the Offaly Biodiversity Action Plan 2025 – 2030.
To access the full Offaly Biodiversity Action Plan and get involved in having your say please go to: http://Offaly.ie