Finian McGrath (Dublin North Central, Independent)
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748. To ask the Minister for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht in relation to the proposed Meenlaragh to Falcarragh Special Protection Area in County Donegal, if he will consider amending the boundaries in this designation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38043/13]

Jimmy Deenihan (Kerry North-West Limerick, Fine Gael)
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I am advised that 32 landowners have exercised their right to appeal the inclusion of their lands within the Special Protection Area (SPA) referred to by the Deputy to the independent Designated Areas Appeals Advisory Board, which will undertake a formal assessment of these appeals based on the scientific merits of their cases.

I understand that the landowners in question have already submitted scientific reports in support of their appeals and that formal appeal hearings will be held as soon as they can be arranged by the Board. As soon as possible thereafter, the Board will make recommendations to me, as Minister, on whether these lands, or parts thereof, should remain within the site.