05/03/2007

Belfast hosts European forum on green issues

The city of Belfast is opening its doors to Europe this week to host a three-day forum on environmental issues which affect our everyday lives.

Climate change, congestion and noise and air pollution are just some of the topics on the agenda of the Eurocities Network conference which will be attended by representatives of 35 European cities.

The conference, which will get underway on Wednesday, has been organised by Belfast City Council’s European Unit.

It is the first time Belfast has hosted the forum which meets three times a year.

Willie Francey, director of Belfast City Council’s Health and Environmental Services, said: "The aim of the forum is for cities to share their experiences and find common solutions to the kinds of environmental issues which dominate our daily lives.

"Belfast, along with cities across Europe, is striving to improve the environment and create a cleaner, safer and healthier city for everyone. The Eurocities Network allows us to support each other in that aim as well as sharing best practice ideas to improve and protect our global environment."

Belfast City Council leads the forum’s working group on Clean Cities and the meeting will be chaired by Gothenburg’s Deputy Mayor of Environment Kia Andreasson.

During their visit to Belfast, Eurocities members will go on several site visits across the city as well as attending a civic reception in City Hall, hosted by the Lord Mayor Councillor Pat McCarthy, and a dinner at Belfast Castle.

Belfast City Council’s commitment to supporting Fairtrade is also on the agenda with a look at the impact this can have on cities as well as its ecological advantages.

(JM/SP)

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