Peter Burke (Longford-Westmeath, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I would like to thank the Senator again for the discussion on this very important topic. Over the years, the steps to designate a site have remained the same, but we have been able to improve and streamline the process. For example, the list of landowners at a site is now provided by the Property Registration Authority of Ireland. However, we still see that not all property is registered with the Property Registration Authority. Therefore, in order to be sure every opportunity is given to appeal, advertisements are placed in national and local newspapers and notices are also placed in local public offices.

The appeals process is comprehensive. If people’s initial appeal is partly unsuccessful or unsuccessful and they are unhappy with the outcome, they can make a further formal appeal to the designated areas appeals advisory board. The board is independent of the Department and it is comprised of a chairperson and equal representation from landowners, user groups and environmental conservationists. This board considers appeals and makes formal recommendations to the Minister on a scientific basis. No further appeals may be lodged after the appeals process has concluded.

All statutory instruments, designated sites and special areas of conservation made to date may be viewed in both the National Parks and Wildlife Service, NPWS, and Irish Statue Book websites.

Obviously, the Senator raised a valid point. My knowledge is not very detailed in this area, but in terms of into the future, if there are areas that may not, should not or potentially should not have an SAC designation, I know from the Department it can be raised at a future date as well, outside of the process that is here, once it has concluded.