Natural Heritage Areas

Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 24 February 2021

Wednesday, 24 February 2021

Questions (335)

Patricia Ryan

Question:

335. Deputy Patricia Ryan asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage if he will make an order designating the Curragh Plains as a natural heritage area; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [10339/21]

Written answers

Minister of State at the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage

There are 632 proposed natural heritage areas including the Curragh (Kildare).

While a review of these sites is foreseen, the current focus of my Department is on fulfilling Ireland’s obligations under the EU Habitats and Birds Directives and the designation of Natura 2000 sites i.e. special areas of conservation and special protection areas.

Although proposed natural heritage area sites are not subject to the protection provisions of the Wildlife (Amendment) Act 2000, they may be recognised in local authority development plans.