I propose to take Questions Nos. 266 to 271, inclusive, together.
My Department is currently undertaking a review of the derogation process under Article 9 of the EU Birds Directive which will take account of all relevant factors, including perceived threats, distribution and population data available in respect of all the bird species in the derogations. ANIAR Ecology were appointed by my Department to undertake the review following a public tendering process. My Department is expecting a final report from the consultants shortly and following consideration of the draft report by my Department the final report will be published.
An interim report was received from the consultants in April this year which included recommendations in respect of the derogation process including in relation to the 2018/19 declarations.
I am arranging for a copy of the documents referred to by the Deputy in relation to the renewal of the declarations for the period commencing 1 May 2018 to be sent to her together with a copy of the consultants’ interim report which will also be published on the website of the National Parks and Wildlife Service of my Department. Following consideration of the consultants' final report, my Department will engage with relevant stakeholders as necessary.
The deferred reply under Standing Order 42A was forwarded to the Deputy.