Dáil Éireann debate -
Thursday, 23 Oct 1997

Vol. 482 No. 2

Written Answers - Special Areas of Conservation.

Derek McDowell

Question:

16 Mr. McDowell asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage, Gaeltacht and the Islands the changes, if any, she proposes to make in the implementation of the Habitats Directive; the meetings, if any, she has had in this regard with interested parties since taking office; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [17406/97]

Thomas P. Broughan

Question:

53 Mr. Broughan asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage, Gaeltacht and the Islands the discussions, if any, she and her officials have had with interested parties about the special areas of conservation; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [17414/97]

Michael D. Higgins

Question:

89 Mr. M. Higgins asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage, Gaeltacht and the Islands if she will give details of the meetings, if any, she and her officials have had with the interests involved in relation to special areas of conservation. [17482/97]

Minister for Arts, Heritage, Gaeltacht and the Islands (Miss de Valera)

I propose to take Questions Nos. 16, 53 and 89 together.

Since taking office, I have had meetings with both the IFA and the ICMSA in relation to special areas of conservation (SACs) and other natural heritage issues. I intend, in the near future, to meet other conservation bodies to further progress the level of partnership on this issue.

I agree with the fundamental objectives of the EU Habitats Directive and our most important natural areas should be protected. In that context I am committed to implementing the Directive's provisions. I also believe, of course, that those who suffer loss because of conservation restrictions are entitled to fair compensation.

The Deputy will no doubt be aware that to date a large number of meetings have been held with relevant groups, representing landowners-users and other interests, to explain the special areas of conservation process. These have proved to be beneficial and similar meetings continue to be held. However, while I was in Opposition, I was very conscious that notwithstanding the meetings and briefings that were taking place, the SAC message was still not getting through, and that events that would profoundly influence the lives of many people were felt to be taking place a world away from them.

I am currently assessing all aspects of the implementation process in line with the commitment made in the Programme for Government, "An Action Programme for The Millennium" in order to ensure that the SACs are put in place with the full involvement of all participants in a spirit of real partnership.

I intend in the near future to put in place improved arrangements for local liaison and involvement. I will be placing considerable emphasis on the role of the national liaison committee whereby at regular intervals my officials, with those of the Department of Agriculture and Food, meet farming organisations to discuss issues arising in the context of the day to day operation of the SAC process, and to achieve smooth and efficient resolution of any difficulties that may arise.

Similar liaison arrangements exist between my Department and other conservation bodies. As the need arises meetings on more specific issues or concerning individual sites take place between local officers of the National Parks and Wildlife Service of my Department and those affected by SAC designation proposals in their areas.