Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 24 March 2021
664. Deputy Michael Healy-Rae asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage if he will address a matter regarding the case of a person (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14644/21]
Amharc ar fhreagraIreland, like all Member States, is bound by the requirements of the EU Nature Directives. The Habitats Directive and the Birds Directive aim to ensure the protection of habitats and species which have been selected for conservation within special areas of conservation and special protection areas. The Directives have been transposed into national law under the European Communities (Birds and Natural Habitats) Regulations 2011, the Planning Acts and the Wildlife Acts.
In advance of the designation of the site referred to in the Deputy's Question, the Department wrote to identified landowners, outlining the intention to designate the site, the appeals process and how to get further information. Government Departments, public authorities, State and semi-State agencies and bodies representing environmental, farming and business interests were also notified. Public notices in relation to the proposed designation were placed in the media.
In 2012, the site, referred to in the Deputy's Question, was formally designated by Statutory Instrument.
Therefore, it would not be permissible to consider changes to the boundary of the site.
