Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 19 Nov 1991

Vol. 413 No. 1

Written Answers. - Areas of Scientific Interest.

Enda Kenny

Question:

66 Mr. Kenny asked the Minister for Finance if he will outline (1) the results of the inter-departmental committee set up in 1990 to examine areas of scientific interest and (2) the legal position in so far as areas of scientific interest are concerned; whether compensation is payable in respect of areas being so declared and the consequences for development; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Minister for Finance (Mr. B. Ahern)

Arrangements are being made to circulate the draft report of the inter-departmental committee set up to examine areas of scientific interest to relevant Government Departments for comment before submission to Government.

The National Parks and Wildlife Service of the Office of Public Works, as part of their remit to conserve our natural habitats, survey the country to identify those areas which are important for conservation. These areas are then listed as areas of scientific interest. Identification and listing as part of an ongoing survey has no specific legal status. It is a means of drawing attention to the environmental qualities of such areas with a view to encouraging their conservation.

Development within areas of scientific interest is not prohibited. Planning authorities as a matter of course take account of the environmental impacts of developments in all areas. They are asked to look particularly closely at developments in areas of scientific interest to ensure that the special features of these areas will not be damaged.

Agencies which provide grant-aid for development are also asked to look carefully at developments in these areas and are asked to refuse grant-aid for developments which would damage the environment.

There are no objections to traditional use of these areas or to developments which would not be harmful to the environment.