Dáil Éireann Debate, Monday - 11 September 2023
1341. Deputy Jennifer Whitmore asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if, considering recent heavy rain fall and in accordance with the conservation objectives of Natura 2000 sites (details supplied), he can indicate what number of active licences contain this mitigation condition; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [39340/23]
View answer1342. Deputy Jennifer Whitmore asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if, considering recent heavy rainfall and in accordance with the conservation objectives of Natura 2000 sites (details supplied), the Forestry Division of his Department has monitored and enforced the AA mitigation/licence condition in relevant licences; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [39341/23]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 1341 and 1342 together.
My Department conducts comprehensive appropriate assessment to ensure that licences issued take account of any impact on Natura 2000 sites.
Compliance with environmental mitigation and other licence conditions imposed by my Department is then the responsibility of the licensee.
My Department operates a risk-based inspection regime for forestry licensing, and conducts inspections at pre-approval stage and when works have been completed. We may also conduct inspections on-site during operations where known risks exist or are brought to our attention.
The information requested in relation to active licences with the mitigation condition referenced is not readily available, but my Department will be in touch with the Deputy directly on this matter.
