East L'Derry constituency is the first constituency in Northern Ireland to achieve full uptake of schools in the world leading Eco-Schools Programme.

The initiative, funded by the Department of the Environment, encourages environmental action by schools which leads to improved attitudes and behaviours towards the environment.

Environment Minister, Mark H Durkan had written to schools back in September encouraging those still not registered with the Programme to do so and as a result 96% of schools across Northern Ireland are now part of the International Programme.

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Speaking to pupils on the Eco Committee of Faughanvale Primary School, Greysteel, during a visit with Gregory Campbell MP, Mr Durkan said: "It is great to see the energy and enthusiasm you have in helping to improve the environment. Taking the opportunity to put into practice what you learn about the environment in class, involving the whole school and engaging the wider community is making a real difference towards a better environment and stronger economy.

"Schools across the North are involved in environmental action that can save money and improve the environment in which children learn. Two schools have achieved zero waste to landfill and in other instances school grounds are being developed as outdoor classrooms.

"Northern Ireland currently ranks ninth in the world for uptake of Eco-Schools. This is all the more significant as it operates on a purely voluntary basis here."

(CD/JP)