Minister Muir makes new CNCC appointment
Date published:
DAERA Minister Andrew Muir has appointed Sara McCracken as the new Deputy Chair of the Council for Nature Conservation and the Countryside (CNCC).
The CNCC provides expertise to the Department on nature protection including Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty and nature reserves as well as on the protection of wildlife species and the promotional and educational activities.
Confirming the new three-year appointment, Minister Muir said: “I am delighted to welcome Sara McCracken as Deputy Chair of the CNCC. She arrives at a challenging period, as the Department takes forward a number of key environmental initiatives. Sara has extensive experience in senior roles and communications with a background in conservation.”
The appointment is effective from 1 March 2025 until 28 February 2028.
The Minister also paid tribute to the outgoing Deputy Chair, Julian Orford, for his support and dedication during his tenure.
Notes to editors:
- Sara McCracken is a member of the Chartered Institute of Public Relations (FCIPR) and has a background education in Zoology with Genetics and currently works as a PR trainer and consultant. She is formerly Head of Fundraising and Communications for Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB) and has experience in different areas including environment, health, education, politics, equestrian and agri-rural businesses. Sara has worked in established businesses and new organisations at a senior level, and has provided expert advice, leadership and communications training to many organisations. She has worked on many campaigns including some that have resulted in legislative change.
- The Deputy Chair position attracts a remuneration of £6,964 (under review) per annum.
- The above appointment is based on merit and political activity plays no part in the selection process. However, the Commissioner for Public Appointments for Northern Ireland (CPANI) requires the political activity of appointees to be published. The appointee has not been involved in any political activity during the past five years.
- The appointment was made in accordance with the provisions of the Nature Conservation and Amenity Lands (Amendment) (Northern Ireland) Order 1989. The statutory role of the CNCC is also covered by the provisions of The Environment (Northern Ireland) Order 2002.
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