Special Protection Areas Designation

Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 28 February 2013

Thursday, 28 February 2013

Questions (160)

Thomas Pringle

Question:

160. Deputy Thomas Pringle asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht the reason his officials have not met local landowners in the Falcarragh-Meenlaragh special protection area in relation to the recent designation of the protection area; if they will meet them before the response deadline of 12 March 2013 recognising that some landowners affected have not received any notification as yet; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [10853/13]

Written answers

Minister for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht

The intention to designate the site referred to by the Deputy was widely publicised in July 2011, through direct correspondence with landowners as well as by advertisement in local and national media. Officials of my Department have met with many landowners in this area to discuss the proposed designation. The officials will continue to facilitate requests from any individual, or group of individuals, who wish to discuss the matter with them before the 12th March next, which is the deadline for the submission of scientific reports to the Designated Areas Appeals Advisory Board for those who have opted to make formal (Stage 2) objections to the proposed designation.