Brian O'Shea
Ceist:82 Mr. O'Shea asked the Minister for the Environment and Local Government the proposals there are for the implementation of the European Landscape Convention; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [10697/01]
Written Answers. - European Landscape Convention.
Jimmy Deenihan
Ceist:103 Mr. Deenihan asked the Minister for the Environment and Local Government if he has submitted proposals to Government on signature of the Council of Europe's European Landscape Convention; when the Government will sign the convention; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14547/01]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 82 and 103 together.
I have not yet submitted proposals to Government on the signature by Ireland of the Council of Europe's European Landscape Convention. Proposals in this regard are currently being finalised by my Department. Signature and ratification of the European Landscape Convention will be a matter for decision by Government.
The European Landscape Convention aims to encourage public authorities to adopt policies and measures at local, regional, national and international level for protecting, managing and planning landscapes throughout Europe. While a number of Departments and State bodies will be responsible for implementation of various aspects of the convention, the principal method of implementation will be through the planning and development system. In so far as my Department is concerned, the Planning and Development Act, 2000, makes improved provision for the protection of landscape. In addition, in June 2000 I issued for public consultation draft guidelines for planning authorities on landscape and landscape assessment and the submissions received are being considered by my Department before the final guidelines are issued later this year.