Sinn Fein has warned that schemes such as the conservation project remain under threat by Brexit.

Spokesperson on Energy, the Environment and Climate Change Cathal Boylan MLA welcomed the announcement that the European Union is providing over £4 million for the project which begins in January.

However he said the scheme would not be possible without the EU funding.

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Mr Boylan said: "The conservation project will see work carried out on three protected areas situated in County Fermanagh and Armagh, the Garron Plateau, Montiaghs Moss and the Pettigo Plateau.

"The project is planning to block drains in order to improve habitats for a number of species including hen harriers and plants such as Irish lady's-tresses orchids.

"I welcome the funding and support provided by the European Union and wish the lead partners in the project the RSPB the best of luck moving forward.

"It is essential that our environment is continuously protected and it is just another example of the recklessness of Brexit when positive schemes such as this will be jeopardised as a result of that agenda."

(CD/LM)