Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 20 March 2024
974. Deputy Johnny Mythen asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine regarding the special protection area off the Wexford coast, to specify any changes to be introduced to the current fishing grounds, and to specify what special protection measures will be put in place; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11616/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe designation of Natura 2000 sites (including Special Protection Areas) and the identification of qualifying interests and conservation objectives for such sites comes under the responsibility of the Minister of State in the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage, Malcolm Noonan TD. On 11 January 2024, Minister Noonan announced the proposed designation of the ‘Seas off Wexford’ as a Special Protection Area – the second such designation in recent months. My Department has requested advice from the Marine Institute and Bord Iascaigh Mhara to inform my response to the designation of this site.
