Greencastle:Keep It Green (GKIG)
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In the absence of a public body who will protect Greencastle openly, GKIG was set up to create awareness of this vulnerability, to build a community who care and share the appreciation of what Greencastle has to offer and to use this site to lobby for change within the ethos of GKIG ie
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Greencastle has the follow
ing designations:
1. ASSI - Area of Special Scientific Interest
3. SSSI - Site of Special Scientific Interest
4. RAMSAR - protection of habitats for birds
5. Ospar - protection of sites for birds
6. SPA - Special Protected Area
2-5 are International designations who rely on DEFRA in England for data, who in turn, rely on NIEA for their data. The NIEA do not protect Greencastle in that they have not applied for MCZ nor SAC status which would afford Greencastle protection from developments that would put the environment at risk.They do not recognise Green Island as having a seal colony even though we see them breeding there every year and they do not protect or enhance our built heritage in that they do not open it for the public nor protect the surrounding landcape from being spoilt by applications that are not in keeping with Greencastle. Cycle NI does not protect Greencastle even though it is a designated cycle route. Tourism NI does not promote Greencastle in any specific literature - although it is part of a Scottish Castle Heritage Trail! Greencastle has not even been provided with a brown sign to signpost visitors. However, they do come! To find peace and unspoilt surroundings. To kayak, scubadive, photograph landscapes, watch birds and wildlife, walk along the beach, horse-ride, cycle and swim! All through word-of-mouth - not too bad for a tiny hamlet! Greencastle because of its strategic position at the mouth of the Lough now boasts ONLY Royal Castle in NI. However, ironically today, this location is contributing to its demise. It is vulnerable for cross border funding projects as it happens to be the closest point to the International Port of Greenore in the South. The Government will use the ideology of cross-border projects to try and rectify their deficit of spending, making this a priority over any environmental impact. We can work together to make a difference by liking, commenting and sharing on facebook, while using our networks to stop this from happening and be the voice for our environment. Thank you for your interest in the GKIG page and we hope to work together to ensure Greencastle prospers and that all its assets are protected and shared for all to enjoy in the future. GKIG
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