The Birds Directive is implemented in Ireland under the Wildlife Acts and the European Communities (Birds and Natural Habitats) Regulations 2011. Under the terms of the Directive, all Member States of the EU are bound to take measures to protect all wild birds and their habitats. Under Article 9(a) Member States may derogate in the interests of public health and safety; air safety; and to prevent serious damage to crops, livestock, forests, fisheries and water; and for the protection of flora and fauna.
In each of the years since 2012, declarations have been made under the European Communities (Wildlife Act, 1976) (Amendment) Regulations 1986, as amended, which allows the capturing, killing or removal of eggs/nests of listed bird species in certain situations. By way of example, the current declarations are available on the website of the National Parks and Wildlife Service of my Department at https://www.npws.ie/legislation/irish-law/eu-birds-directive-derogations. I will furnish the Deputy with copies of all derogation orders made since 2012.