Alice-Mary Higgins (Independent) | Oireachtas source

I move amendment No. 37:

In page 35, between lines 4 and 5, to insert the following: “(c) as appropriate the species and or habitats or ecosystem features or characteristics of the area of the marine the subject of the DMAP which are to be protected,”

I understand Senator Warfield will move amendment No. 39 in the same grouping. Amendment No. 37 provides that the draft DMAP specify species or habitats and ecosystem features and characteristics of the area in the DMAP that is to be protected. The draft DMAP would provide the kind of detail that would become useful, in terms of species, habitats, ecosystem features and characteristics, and might specify not simply that we are in a marine environment that needs to be protected but the specifics of what needs to be protected in the area in question. This will lead to a better quality of care and thought, be it with regard to a migratory species that passes through the area.It should not be the case that a list of factors qualifies an area. There must also be real consideration of the granular detail. As we know, each thread in an ecosystem does different work and is of different importance.

Amendment No. 39 highlights other matters that should be respected notwithstanding the use of a designated maritime area plan for any particular development purpose or activity. I will let Senator Warfield speak further to amendment No. 39.