Brendan Howlin (Wexford, Labour)
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Question 159: To ask the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if, in relation to the proposed special area of conservation for Wexford Harbour, regard was given to the submissions received and the public meetings which were held in Wexford regarding the proposed boundaries of the SAC; if a decision has been made in relation to the boundaries; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32706/08]

John Gormley (Dublin South East, Green Party)
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My Department is engaged in a nationwide roll-out of Special Protection Areas in accordance with the EU Birds Directive. The exercise includes redesignation of SPA sites some of which, like Wexford Harbour, were first designated ten years ago. This work is particularly required as part of Ireland's response to an adverse judgment by the European Court of Justice against Ireland in December 2007.

In November 2007, my Department proposed three sites in County Wexford for designation as SPAs, one being Wexford Harbour and Slobs. While these are not new designations the boundaries have been extended in some areas. Landowners, and others identified by my Department's National Parks and Wildlife Service, as having land or holding rights or licences in SPAs were notified directly in writing. They were provided with a site map and description, list of activities that may damage the site, procedures for objecting to the designation proposal and details of compensation provisions. Objections on scientific grounds to these proposals could be submitted within three months from the date of their publication and appeals are being processed at the moment. My Department continues to be in dialogue with representative groupings. However, I have not as yet made any decisions as to changes in the proposed boundaries.