Northern Ireland has launched a ten-year conservation strategy aimed at reversing the decline in seabird populations, which have fallen by more than 60% over the past two decades.
The Northern Ireland Seabird Conservation Strategy 2026–2035 sets out a coordinated framework to protect 30 priority seabird species facing increasing pressure from climate change, food shortages, invasive species and avian influenza.
The strategy was officially launched at the RSPB West Light Seabird Centre on Rathlin Island by DAERA Minister Andrew Muir, alongside conservation partners involved in ongoing restoration work.
The 30 priority species includes puffins, gannets and razorbills, which also includes both breeding seabirds and wintering waterbirds, that depend on Northern Ireland’s marine environment.
During the visit DAERA Minister Andrew Muir said, “Action is needed to halt the further decline of seabirds, improve resilience and make steps towards recovery. We can take hope from the work of the LIFE Raft project here on Rathlin which is a truly inspiring nature restoration project led by RSPB NI, with support from the Rathlin Development Community Association and other partners. This will have a transformative impact on the fortunes of seabirds and has already led to the return of Manx shearwaters after a 20-year absence."
The strategy was developed through a co-design process involving environmental NGOs, the marine sector and fisheries stakeholders.
It also aligns with wider UK seabird conservation efforts.
RSPB NI welcomed the strategy as a critical milestone but stressed that success will depend on sustained investment and delivery over the coming decade.
