A major conference, ‘Changing Environments’ was opened by Minister Mark H Durkan today in Derry~Londonderry.

The event which is running across the 7th & 8th of November, is addressing the significant challenges that the UK and Ireland face at a time when much is changing within our environments.

The conference will assess the impact of these changes and will contribute towards meeting challenges in several areas including the economy, the built environment and the public sector.

The event is also showcasing examples of innovation and explores current and emerging global issues for public and environmental health, challenges to 2015 and beyond and the way ahead for local government in managing change and shaping the future of Northern Ireland.

Environment Minister Mark H Durkan said: “What this conference highlights is the importance of good teamwork. The changes to local government will bring development and community planning together with environmental health practitioners within the new councils.

“The many professional partnerships and local groups that have worked to bring about a new sense of community, a new level of prosperity and a new feeling of wellbeing in Derry is an exemplar of what can be achieved by working together.” 

Commenting on the conference Gary McFarlane, Director of the Chartered Institute of Environmental Health said, “The event is providing an excellent opportunity for leaders not only within the local government sector, but wider society – private and public – to come together to consider the future at a time of uncertainty, change, and significant challenges socially, economically and environmentally”.

“It is essential that we continue to create the opportunity for discussion, dialogue and learning amongst stakeholders and this conference is helping to inform and shape the future delivery of key services that protect and improve the health and wellbeing of our local communities.”

The conference will conclude on Friday 8th November - for further details please visit www.ciehchangingenvironments.com

ENDS

For further information contact Shane Finnegan or Caroline Murphy at Aiken PR Tel: 02890 663000 Email: shane@aikenpr.co.uk or caroline@aikenpr.co.uk

Notes to EditorsThe ‘Changing Environments’ Conference is being organised and supported by a range of statutory and voluntary agencies including:• The Chartered Institute of Environmental Health• The Public Health Agency• NI Environment Agency• Food Standards Agency• Health and Safety Executive NI