Natural Heritage Areas

Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 24 June 2021

Thursday, 24 June 2021

Ceisteanna (57)

Holly Cairns

Ceist:

57. Deputy Holly Cairns asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage if it will be ensured that all proposed natural heritage areas are designated natural heritage areas. [33841/21]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister of State at the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage

There are 630 proposed natural heritage areas. While a review of these sites is foreseen, the current focus of my Department is on fulfilling Ireland’s obligations under the EU Habitats and Birds Directives and the designation of Natura 2000 sites i.e. special areas of conservation and special protection areas.

Although proposed natural heritage area sites are not subject to the natural heritage area provisions of the Wildlife (Amendment) Act 2000, they may be recognised in local authority development plans.