Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 22 March 2023
137. Deputy Jennifer Whitmore asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage if he will provide an update on the newly proposed maritime Special Protection Areas, under the EU Birds Directive; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14218/23]
Amharc ar fhreagraIreland designates Special Protection Areas (SPAs) in accordance with the EU Birds Directive (2009/147/EC) for the protection of listed rare and vulnerable bird species.
Our marine SPAs include productive intertidal zones in bays and estuaries that provide vital food resources for wader species; marine waters adjacent to breeding seabird colonies and other important areas for our bird population.
Whilst there are no new maritime Special Protection Areas (SPAs) currently proposed for formal designation, the NPWS is examining a number of important marine sites for the protection of birds. The results of this work will inform proposals for a number of maritime extensions to existing Special Protection Area sites which I intend to bring forward in the coming months, as well as potential new sites to be proposed as SPAs in the future. These will follow the normal designations process for an extension to a European site, including public notification in due course.
The process for designation of Special Protection Areas is distinct and separate to that for Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) which are being progressed separately, and which will provide an important new form of protection for our marine natural heritage.
