National Parks and Wildlife Service

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 10 March 2015

Tuesday, 10 March 2015

Ceisteanna (632)

Michael Fitzmaurice

Ceist:

632. Deputy Michael Fitzmaurice asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht her views on the potential nature conservation implications for extensive farmland and upland Natura 2000 sites outlined in correspondence (details supplied) to the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine and recently published by the Irish Natura and Hill Farmers' Association, supported by a range of environmental organisations; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [10459/15]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht

I am aware of the correspondence referred to by the Deputy.

The National Parks and Wildlife Service of my Department is in ongoing dialogue with staff of the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine with respect to eligibility rules in upland and commonage lands, and, in particular, for lands that are part of the Natura 2000 network.