Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 21 March 2024
225. Deputy Aodhán Ó Ríordáin asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage the process in which his Department can issue recommendations to a local authority in respect of wildlife protection in advance of a nature impact assessment been undertaken in respect of a proposal that has yet to developed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13354/24]
Amharc ar fhreagra226. Deputy Aodhán Ó Ríordáin asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage what role it has in relation to biodiversity protection and part 8 local authority planning applications; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13355/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraI propose to take Questions Nos. 225 and 226 together.
Under Article 82(3)(n) of the Planning and Development Regulations 2001, as amended, the Minister with responsibility for Heritage is notified of a proposed development where it appears to the authority that the development might have significant effects in relation to nature conservation. The National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) within my Department is the agency responsible for providing recommendations to the local authority in such circumstances where a proposal for a development has been made.
My Department does provide a pre-application consultation service for prospective applicants or via their consultants intending to make a plan or apply for permission for a project or development. Such consultations or engagement with the heritage sections of this Department are facilitated through the Development Applications Unit.
