Donal Carey
Ceist:78 Mr. D. Carey asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage, Gaeltacht and the Islands if she has examined the proposed golf site at Doonbeg, County Clare, for very rare species; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [6883/99]
Written Answers. - National Heritage Areas.
The Carrowmore Whitestrand proposed natural heritage area was surveyed to determine if these lands met the requirements of the EU Habitats Directive 92/43/EEC. This survey identified habitats covered by the directive in a relatively small portion of the site.
Consultants for the developer subsequently prepared an environmental impact statement on lands proposed for the development. This process brought to light the existence of the rare species of snail Vertigo angustior. Dúchas, the heritage service of my Department, recently surveyed the area identified by the developers, and the special area of conservation, and discovered that the species is also to be found on land included in the special area of conservation.
The grazing regime in use in recent years has led to nutrient enrichment of the soil, which is detrimental to the survival of the species, on the lands in question. It will be some time before the long-term impact of this nutrient enrichment is known and it is possible that the species will not survive irrespective of the management regime that may be put in place.
The developers of the proposed golf course have contacted Dúchas and are committed to liaise with it, acquire its advice, and establish the course in a manner which is not detrimental to this snail. I am certain that the management regime that will be put in place will do all possible to satisfy the needs of the species. As these lands are included in a proposed natural heritage area, the developers will be required to meet their commitments regarding the snail or, if failing to do so, lose their development grants. Dúchas is confident that the golf course may be developed in such a way as to ensure it has no significant impact on Vertigo angustior. This species is known to be present in nine sites proposed for SAC designation. Dúchas carries out additional surveys to determine if the species is present in other sites.