A major environmental conference focusing on ‘Changing Environments’ is taking place in Derry~Londonderry next month.

Northern Ireland, like the rest of the UK and Ireland, faces significant challenges at a time when much is changing. There are changes not only to the natural and built environment, but also within society, our economy, and of course the public sector. From 2015 local government in NI will change radically both in terms of structures, but also in terms of roles. At the same time there is much to celebrate and much to learn and these are the key issues that will be addressed at the conference.

The event will showcase examples of innovation and will explore current and emerging global issues for public and environmental health, challenges to 2015 and beyond and the way ahead for local government in managing change and shaping the future of Northern Ireland.

Looking ahead to the conference Gary McFarlane, Director of the Chartered Institute of Environmental Health said, “This event is an excellent opportunity for leaders not only within the local government sector, but wider society – public and private – to come together to consider the future at a time of uncertainty, change, and significant challenges socially, economically and environmentally”.

“It is essential that we create the opportunity for discussion, dialogue and learning amongst key stakeholders and this event will aim to assist in informing and shaping the future delivery of key services that protect and improve the health and wellbeing of our local communities.”

Speakers will include Minister for the Environment, Mark H Durkan, representatives from the environment agency, health and safety executive, public health agency, and DHSSPS. There  will also be contributions from leading global experts such as Professor Martin Caraher from London City University who will share his expertise on how delegates locally can adapt their services in a globalising world.

The conference will take place over two days with a combination of plenary and parallel sessions showcasing examples of excellence and providing further insight into specific technical issues relating to public health and safety.

The conference will take place on Thursday 7th and Friday 8th November from 9.00am - places will be limited and therefore early booking is advisable. Online booking is available at www.ciehchangingenvironments.com

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For further information contact Shane Finnegan or Caroline Murphy at Aiken PR Tel: 02890 663000 Email: shane@aikenpr.co.uk or caroline@aikenpr.co.uk

Notes to EditorsThe ‘Changing Environments’ Conference is being organised and supported by a range of statutory and voluntary agencies including:• The Chartered Institute of Environmental Health• The Public Health Agency• NI Environment Agency• Food Standards Agency• Health and Safety Executive NI• Chief Environmental Health Officers Group• Department of the Environment• Department of Health, Social Services and Public Safety• NI Local Government Association