JNCC's adventures in Bulgaria

Bulgaria is planning to join the European Union in 2007, but must have all the necessary legislation and administrative frameworks in place beforehand. This is a considerable challenge but support is provided by the European Commission and existing Member States.

 

In order to assess progress, the Commission undertake peer reviews on the implementation of European law. The review teams are led by Commission officials and are assisted by specialists from Member States.

 

Wyn Jones, Head of Habitats Advice at JNCC, recently participated in the environmental peer review of Bulgaria, assessing the wildlife provisions. This was Wyn's third peer review to an accession country. "I am amazed as to how quickly countries are able to establish the necessary laws and infra structure to implement European wildlife laws. Bulgaria is no exception", he said.

 

"In addition it is also required to submit a national list of Special Protection Areas and Special Areas of Conservation by 2007, and is well on the way to achieving this target".

 

One of the common problems encountered is lack of staff resources and having too few trained personnel to administer the wildlife Directives. Bulgaria is rich in wildlife, including the Danube in the north, the Black Sea to the east, and the mountains of the central Balkan and Rila national parks. Wyn concluded:

"With such variety and richness of wildlife I can recommend visiting Bulgaria".

 

 

Wyn Jones, Head of Habitats Advice

Tel: +44 (0) 1733 866852

Email: