Alliance has reiterated the need to do better to support nature's recovery.

Alliance Agriculture and Environment Spokesperson, John Blair MLA made the comments after meeting with representatives from Ulster Wildlife.

Mr Blair said our natural environment is "depleting rapidly and will continue to do so unless we take urgent action" which is not a surprise due to the current state of Lough Neagh.

In a statement Mr Blair said:

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"This week, I met with representatives from Ulster Wildlife to discuss their ongoing work on critical environmental issues, such as the recovery of marine life and biodiversity, as well as the protection of our native species, like the badger. We also discussed the work that still needs to be done in these areas.

"The meeting served as a clear reminder of the effort required to protect nature, both now and in the future. It is my hope that in the New Year, with a restored Assembly, we can work towards addressing these issues and bringing positive change to our environment. I am also hopeful that in the year ahead, environment and nature proofing will become a more central part of government thinking, planning and policy given the clear links to health and wellbeing and, therefore, the public good."