I propose to take Questions Nos. 717 and 718 together.
I am advised that the area referred to by the Deputy, while not designated formally as a Natural Heritage Area under the Wildlife Acts, is within a Special Protection Area (SPA) and a Special Area of Conservation (SAC), designated in accordance with the EU Birds and Habitats Directives. Therefore, the impact of any proposed development on these sites must be considered by the relevant consent authority under the provisions of Part XAB of the Planning and Development Acts, for planning consents, and the European Communities (Birds and Natural Habitats) Regulations 2011, for other consents. There is also a requirement for my consent, as Minister, for the undertaking of certain activities within or affecting such sites within the SPA and SAC. I am arranging for details of these activities to be forwarded for the Deputy's information.