Northern Ireland’s first ever Rural Community Pollinator Scheme has been launched to protect the health of its bees and pollinators.

The £700,000 scheme will provide grants between £3000 and £12,000 to rural community groups and schools to create or enhance a rural community pollinator garden.

Read more: New pollinator push in Northern Ireland

Environment Minister Edwin Poots said: “Pollinators are vital to our food production and our economy – crops and fruits rely on them to reproduce and grow. One in three bites of food we eat is pollinated by insects.

“Sadly pollinators are in decline and we need to take urgent action. That is why I am announcing the first ever Rural Community Pollinator Scheme to help improve the health of the pollinator population.

“This scheme is part of the Northern Ireland Centenary celebrations and will create a lasting legacy for rural communities whilst at the same time creating much needed habitat. It will also open up spaces for rural communities to enjoy and share together."

Ian Humphreys, chief executive of environmental charity Keep Northern Ireland Beautiful, which will be distributing the pollinator funding on behalf of DAERA, said: “Improving the situation for our pollinators is crucial. DAERA’s recognition of the vital role of pollinators to our economy and agriculture is welcomed in the scale of the rurally focused pollinator grants being launched today.

Read more: NI in an unacceptable position - Edwin Poots

“Planting trees and wildflowers for pollinating species also enhances the beauty of our local communities which is vital for mental health and wellbeing. We’re delighted to be here today at an amazing Eco-School and we would encourage rural schools, community groups and environmental organisations to contact our grant officers without delay if they need support in making an application.”