MEP BECOMES 'A VOICE FOR NATURE' AT SALTHOLME RSPB RESERVE

12.00.00am BST (GMT +0100) Wed 27th May 2009

MEP for the North East Fiona Hall has been joined by Lib Dem spokesperson for Energy and Climate, Simon Hughes MP, for a tour of the RSPB Saltholme bird reserve.

Simon and Fiona were shown around the reserve by site manager David Braithwaite who pointed out the importance of the reserve to birds such as the Common Tern, a species which migrates from Africa to Saltholme every May.

Mr Braithwaite emphasised the importance of immediate action to control climate change given that the future range of European breeding birds is predicted to contract by one fifth this century. The range covered by European bird species is likely to shift 350km to the north west of the current range, spelling serious consequences for many species found at Saltholme.

Said Fiona Hall: "While more southern species may start to frequent Saltholme, such as egrets, the shift in habitat could have fatal consequences for many birds which currently frequent the North East, because there will be no suitable alternative habitats for them to migrate to."

Fiona signed the pledge to become 'a Voice for Nature' for the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds. She commented:

"To protect the species of bird found at Saltholme, renewed investment in the natural environment is essential. Land managed specifically for nature conversation has a better chance of safeguarding species. This is particularly important as currently 38% of UK priority habitats are in decline and the commitment to halt loss of biodiversity by 2010, made by EU Heads of State in 2001, is unlikely to be met.

"Tackling climate change is a key priority in the fight to preserve biodiversity and prevent habitat loss."

The Lib Dem Energy and Climate shadow minister Simon Hughes said:

"The new Saltholme reserve is clearly going to be one of the jewels in the crown of nature conservation in the North East.

"After 25 years of work the RSPB have shown how old industry land can be reclaimed and can become a safe haven for some of the rarest species of birdlife in England.

"Today's visit shows that already huge numbers of people from the North East are joining the campaign to protect the birds of Britain and support the reclamation of open spaces on our door steps."