John Bruton
Question:77 Mr. J. Bruton asked the Minister for Finance when he will introduce legislation to provide statutory backing for the designation of areas of scientific interest.
Written Answers. - Areas of Scientific Interest.
As I announced earlier this year, the Government have adopted a new approach to the protection of areas of scientific interest. All the old areas of scientific interest are being reviewed to see whether they should be designated as natural heritage areas. This review is being done in consultation with farming and conservation organisations.
Legislation to give statutory protection to natural heritage areas has been prepared and will be included in a Bill to amend provisions of the Wildlife Act. This Bill will be submitted to Government in the near future.