Vol. 513 No. 1
642 Mr. Perry asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage, Gaeltacht and the Islands if she will rescind the decision made on behalf of a person (details supplied) in County Sligo in view of the fact that prior to commencing his business he had all the plans in place for the development of his business and he was unaware of the major changes under the special area of conservations; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [1934/00]
The designation of special areas of conservation arises from requirements under the EU Habitats Directive, 92/42/EEC of 21 May, 1992 as transposed into Irish law by the European Communities (Natural Habitats) Regulations, 1996 (S.I. No. 94 of 1997).
The site which the Deputy refers to is within the Ox Mountain Bogs (Blanket Bog) SAC. It is in the middle of an extensive area of undeveloped bog. As a "priority" habitat this area is required to be given the highest level of protection possible by Ireland as a member state of the European Union.
The record shows that the person concerned received adequate notice of the requirements under the habitats directive.
In general compensation is payable for actual, rather than potential vouched losses arising from restrictions imposed as a direct result of designation of a site as an SAC. This compensation is based on proof of ownership rights, vouched income, receipts and audited accounts.
If the person in question would like a meeting with senior officials of my Department I would be happy to facilitate him.
