Victor Boyhan (Independent) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Cathaoirleach for selecting this Commencement matter. I also thank the Minister of State, Deputy O’Donnell, for coming into the Chamber. The designation of special areas of conservation, SAC, ultimately falls within his remit. It has come to my attention through correspondence from various NGOs, other environmental groups and local councillors in County Kerry, particularly with regard to Killarney National Park, and Clare County Council with regard to the Burren, about areas of designation and the obligations in terms of ongoing and protracted issues around the infringement of the EU habitats directive. This is an important issue that needs to be looked at.

It has been reported that Ireland has not yet taken action to protect at least 40 areas of SAC. I do not intend going into the 40 areas, however. This Commencement matter is with regard to the Burren and Killarney National Park in County Kerry. Therefore, that is why I have asked the Minister of State to come to the House and I reckon he has prepared in that regard.

Sites that have not been designated in the legislation are of concern. These special areas of conservation are particularly important places that recognise sensitive habitats and support flora and fauna. They must be of concern to the Minister of State. When we hear there is ongoing engagement with the European Union with regard to infringements of directives, one has to be alarmed. I know the Minister of State, Deputy Noonan, is particularly committed in this area.

As I said, areas of conservation fall under the remit of the Minister of State. Ireland is facing legal proceedings from the European Commission with regard to its obligations and failure to deal with the habitats directive regarding these obligations, which are ultimately to protect our natural habitats, and we are failing to establish the necessary measures to ensure their conservation. I understand there is to be progress in the coming months but that is a bit slow given that this has been an ongoing and protracted issue which there has been a commitment in Government to address.

As the Minister of State knows, the main aim of the habitats directive is to conserve the best examples of our natural and semi-natural habitat species and flora and fauna throughout the EU. We have our role in terms of the national Government in Ireland and our obligations under this really important directive. Of course, the Minister of State will be aware that each state is required to designate special areas of conservation and protect those habitats.

To be specific, I want to hear specifically about parts of the Burren and our national park in Killarney. Can the Minister of State confirm whether I am correct in my understanding of the infringements? If I am not, he might correct me. Will he set out how the Government intends to deal with these issues and indicate a timeline for the roll-out of this response? It is an important issue. I do not doubt the Government's commitment to it but we must push it along. I am particularly interested to hear about the timelines involved.