DOE Environment Heritage Service is supporting events across Northern Ireland next week to celebrate many hundreds of environmental volunteers.

Richard Rogers, Chief Executive of EHS said Volunteers contribute in many ways including doing practical work, recording environmental data, working as members of management committees and lobbying to protect sites and resources. Each of us can play our part, and together protect and enhance the environment in which we live, for ourselves and for future generations.

EHS is pleased to take this opportunity to celebrate the enormous contribution that volunteers make to protecting and enhancing the environment of Northern Ireland. I thank all the hard-working volunteers who have already contributed in so many ways to protecting this wonderful heritage.

Almost 300 people have been nominated by environmental organisations for awards to acknowledge their valuable work, which Professor Brian Black will present to them during the week.

Mr Rogers said: The whole environmental sector is working together to encourage more people to come out and get involved in volunteering to improve the environment. Why not get involved in the year's events and be inspired to improve the environment on your doorstep; in local parks, nature reserves, woods and urban areas, making a real impact in helping conserve the environment. Information on a huge range of volunteering activities, giving dates, times, locations and contact details can be found at www.nienvironmentlink.org/opportunities.html .

Go on, take a look at what's on offer and give it a whirl! There really is something for everyone. What is your passion? Mr Rogers asked.

NOTES TO EDITORS:

Environment and Heritage Service (EHS) are funding Conservation Volunteers Northern Ireland to co-ordinate the celebration and promotion of environmental volunteering. This year, 2005, is the Year of the Volunteer and May has been designated Environment Month.

Photographic Opportunities:

Volunteer Award Ceremonies where all the environmental volunteers nominated will receive certificates and enjoy a celebratory barbecue are being held at:

Bangor - Mon 23 May Clandeboye Estate

Belfast - Mon 23 r May Wildflower Nursery, Knockbracken Healthcare Park

Castle Archdale - Tue 24 May in the Courtyard

Coleraine - Thu 26 May Kilcranny House

L/Derry - Thu 26 May Gransha Wood

For more information contact:

Conservation Volunteers Northern Ireland Contact Ian Humphreys Tel 028 9064 5169 or

Paddy Murphy DOE Press Office tel 02890540003.