§ Lord Lairdasked Her Majesty's Government:
How many conservation officers the Department of Environment in Northern Ireland employs; and whether that number is sufficient. [HL438]
§ Baroness AmosThe department employs six officers, three full-time and three part-time, on conservation area work. In addition, the department operates a call-off contract with local architects, who also provide advice on conservation area matters.
The Minister of the Environment is currently reviewing the level of resources devoted to this important work.
§ Lord Lairdasked Her Majesty's Government:
Whether they plan to make any change in the responsibilities of conservation areas in Northern 30WA Ireland; and whether they envisage an increase in funding in the near future. [HL439]
§ Baroness AmosThe Minister of the Environment is currently reviewing the arrangements for, and funding of, the administration of conservation area work within the Department of the Environment.