Cllr Janet Finch-Saunders AM has lent her support for the sustainable management of Welsh seas for the future by signing the Welsh Environment Link Marine Declaration at the Royal Welsh Show this year.

Janet visited the Wales Environment Link (WEL) stand and expressed her support for the work of the WEL Marine Working Group.

The Welsh marine environment is vulnerable to damage from human activities and considerable losses in marine biodiversity over time have been observed. In November 2009, the Marine and Coastal Access Act was introduced which presents real opportunities to revolutionise marine management in Wales.  Wales Environment Link is working to make sure the Welsh Government takes the necessary steps to ensure that the Marine Act is adequately resourced and implemented swiftly and effectively in Wales. WEL is calling for the implementation of effectively managed Marine Protected Areas, a robust marine planning and licensing system, and ecosystem-based fisheries management. 

Janet said: ““Sustainable marine management is essential to ensuring the future of our beautiful Welsh seas and wildlife. I am proud to lend my full support to this campaign.”

Dr Iwan Ball, Chair of the WEL Marine Working Group, said “The WEL Marine Declaration is an opportunity for decision makers to recognise the richness and importance of Welsh seas, and commit to ensuring the Marine and Coastal Access Act fulfils its promise by protecting Welsh seas for the future.”

The Marine Campaign is run by WEL’s Marine Working Group, which comprises representatives from Wildlife Trusts Wales, RSPB Cymru, WWF Cymru, the Marine Conservation Society and National Trust.

WEL have also launched their Marine Photography Competition, providing an opportunity to celebrate Wales’ sensational sea, which can be entered for free at www.waleslinkmarine.org.uk.