Josepha Madigan (Dublin Rathdown, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

We are finalising the designation of 430 SACs. There was a long consultation period on these and wildlife protection. There have been many misclaims by BirdWatch Ireland. There was an extensive public consultation, a protracted debate in both Houses and in no way was there a rolling back. It is a gross misrepresentation of the situation. We are seeking an evidence basis for any change and will do so in a fully transparent way. BirdWatch Ireland cited a danger to the curlew. The biggest enemy of the curlew is unmanaged or degradation of existing habitats, however. This is the scientific view of our leading expert in the National Parks and Wildlife Service, Dr. Barry O'Donoghue. My Department is spending in excess of €400,000 over the next three years on a curlew management plan in which BirdWatch Ireland is a partner. I am surprised it took this particular unscientific stance, knowing what it knows on the ground.

Regarding the petition to which the Deputy referred earlier, my Department made arrangements two months ago to receive it. That remained in place until two hours ago when I understand the Deputy received the petition and presented it to my Department.