Paul Connaughton Snr (Galway East, Fine Gael)
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Question 255: To ask the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the position concerning an appeal on scientific grounds regarding the designation of lands on the River Suck callows, Ballinasloe, County Galway, in the name of a person (details supplied) in County Galway; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13638/05]

Dick Roche (Wicklow, Fianna Fail)
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This appeal was unsuccessful at the initial stage of internal review by the national parks and wildlife service of my Department. Given this outcome, the appellant was offered, and is pursuing, the option of having the appeal referred to the designated areas appeals advisory board. I am advised that the appellant has presented an expert scientific case in support of the appeal and that the national parks and wildlife service expert scientific case has been prioritised and will be with the board very soon.

Given the number of appeals on hand the board is unlikely to hear this appeal before late June. The appellant will be kept informed as arrangements are made for a hearing. I look forward to receiving the board's recommendation as soon as possible.