Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 20 January 2021
251. Deputy Jennifer Whitmore asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage if a review of the protection of natural heritage, including hedgerows, native woodlands and wetlands, is being carried out; if not, when this will commence; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [2901/21]
View answerRegional Management Staff in the National Parks and Wildlife Section of my Department oversee the protection of our natural heritage on an ongoing basis in line with their functions under the Wildlife Acts and the European Communities (Birds and Natural Habitats) Regulations 2011. A new Wildlife Crime Unit will be established in the National Parks and Wildlife Service this year and this will facilitate a review of how all habitats and species are protected including those habitats mentioned by the Deputy.
