Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 14 December 2023
346. Deputy Darren O'Rourke asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage if he will provide an update on plans to strengthen the ability of local authorities to tackle the biodiversity crisis; the gaps and challenges that exist to reaching their potential; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [56163/23]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Programme for Government includes a commitment to ensure that each Local Authority has a sufficient number of Biodiversity Officers and Heritage Officers among their staff complement. The Biodiversity Officer Programme is being delivered by the Heritage Council, which is funded by my Department. Arrangements have been put in place by all bodies under the aegis of my Department to facilitate the provision of information directly to members of the Oireachtas. This provides a speedy, efficient and cost effective system to address queries directly to the relevant bodies. The contact email address for the Heritage Council is oireachtas@heritagecouncil.ie.
In addition to the support provided by my Department for the Biodiversity Officer programme, my Department operates the Local Biodiversity Action Fund to assist local authorities with the implementation of projects that promote actions contained in the National Biodiversity Action Plan. First launched in 2018, a fund of €3m was made available this year, double the amount available in 2022. Local authorities play a vital role in addressing the biodiversity emergency and over €6m has been awarded to local authorities through this fund to date.
