I am grateful to the Deputy for bringing to my attention the possible damage to an SAC at Brittas Bay. I have asked Dúchas, the heritage division of my Department, to investigate his report as a matter of urgency.
In cases where it appears that an individual may damage a site, and that person does not prove amenable to persuasion, I can and do resort to legal sanctions. These sanctions can include court injunctions and, where appropriate, prosecutions. Those found to be in breach of the regulations are liable to a fine and-or imprisonment and they can also be required to restore any damage they have done.