Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 14 May 2003

Vol. 566 No. 4

Written Answers. - Environmental Policy.

Trevor Sargent

Question:

264 Mr. Sargent asked the Minister for the Environment and Local Government if he is preparing an inventory of wetland habitats here; if these wetlands will have full designation; if planning permission will be required before material changes to these protected areas can be undertaken; and when such an inventory will be published. [13192/03]

Minister for the Environment and Local Government (Mr. Cullen)

Wetlands include a variety of habitat types. Inventory and survey to date has focused on those considered to be most at risk, notably turloughs, lagoons and raised and blanket bogs. Fens are a remaining priority for survey. The water framework directive will provide a context for further inventory and research on wetlands.

Many wetlands in Ireland are protected as part of the Natura 2000 network, having met the selection criteria under the EU habitats directive or the EU birds directive, or both. I have also announced proposals for the protection of 75 raised bogs as natural heritage areas under the Wildlife (Amendment) Act 2000. An inventory of blanket bogs suitable for designation as NHAs is being carried out this year, and similar consideration will be given to other wetland habitat types in subsequent years.

Where a material change is likely to have a significant effect on a site designated for nature conservation, the deciding authority must ensure appropriate assessment of the implications for the site before taking a decision. Where such changes constitute development under the Planning Acts responsibility rests with the planning authority. Where such changes do not require permission or licensing by any other authority, the decision rests with my Department, to which notice of the proposed change should be given.