Environment Minister Arlene Foster today announced the appointment of Patrick Casement as Chairman of the Council for Nature Conservation and the Countryside.

The competition was carried out in accordance with the Office of the Commission for Pubic Appointments in Northern Ireland (OCPANI) Code of Practice under the monitored kitemark scheme.

The Council is a statutory advisory body that advises the Department of the Environment on matters affecting the countryside of Northern Ireland and on nature conservation issues.

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Welcoming the appointment and the commitment which people show by serving on the Council, the Minister said: "Caring for our natural heritage is an important aspect of the Government's environmental policy and the advice of the Council will undoubtedly be most valuable. I am delighted that Patrick Casement has agreed to lead the Council during the next three years."

Patrick Casement has run his own business, a family farm, for 30 years and he has acted as Director and Chairman of various farming organisations.

All appointments are made on merit and political activity plays no part in the selection process. However, in accordance with the original Nolan recommendations, there is a requirement for the political activity of appointees (if any declared) to be published.

Mr Casement has not undertaken any political activity in the last five years and does not hold any other public appointment.

The Chairman receives a salary of £9,550 per annum and is entitled to travelling and out of pocket expenses.

(GK/JM)