Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 6 October 2009
951 Deputy Richard Bruton asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government when a decision on the implementation of a special protection order on Dublin Bay will be made in view of the fact that he has a copy of the report from the Designated Areas Appeal Advisory Group in his possession; the reason for the delay in making his decision; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33043/09]
Amharc ar fhreagraFollowing the notification of my intention to designate South Dublin Bay & River Tolka Estuary Special Protection Area in May 2008, one appeal, from the Dublin Port Company, was made to the Designated Areas Appeals Advisory Board for its consideration. The Board heard the appeal on 2 July 2009. Having considered the scientific evidence presented by my Department and by the appellant, the Designated Areas Appeals Advisory Board advised me that there is sufficient scientific evidence to support the retention of the area subject to the appeal within the SPA. The Board recommended that the appeal be refused.
I have accepted the recommendation of the Board in this regard, and have rejected the appeal. My decision was notified to Dublin Port Company in July 2009.
I expect shortly to sign a Statutory Instrument, which will complete the designation process for this site.
