Sinn Féin’s newest MLA, Aoife Finnegan, has said she will use her position to stand up for rural areas.
The Newry and Armagh representative was speaking after being appointed to the Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs Committee.
“I’m delighted to be working on the AERA committee, especially given my role as party spokesperson on environmental issues in the Assembly,” she said.
“Coming from South Armagh, I’m fully aware of the challenges people in rural areas face when it comes to accessing services, employment, housing, having public infrastructure maintained and a myriad of other issues.
“It’s also one of the most beautiful areas in Ireland, so I’m determined to protect our natural environment, reverse biodiversity loss, clean up our rivers and lakes and really promote South Armagh as a destination for outdoor pursuits.
“This is a big farming area as well and I don’t see any reason why agriculture and environment should be in contention. Farmers are the custodians of the countryside. They, more than anyone else, have a vested interest in ensuring that the land is sustainably managed.
“With sensible planning and supports in place we can ensure that farming and the agricultural way of life continue to thrive here for generations to come as we make a Just Transition to net zero emissions and renewable energy.”
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