Holly Cairns (Cork South West, Social Democrats)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

316. To ask the Minister for Housing, Planning, and Local Government his plans to ensure that Toon Wood, Macroom, County Cork is immediately designated as a natural heritage area; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3742/21]

Malcolm Noonan (Carlow-Kilkenny, Green Party)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

Given that legal proceedings are underway in this matter, I am precluded from comment on this subject at this time.

When proceedings are concluded I will be happy to engage further with the Deputy on the matter.

Holly Cairns (Cork South West, Social Democrats)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

317. To ask the Minister for Housing, Planning, and Local Government his plans to ensure that Garrylucas Bog, County Cork is immediately designated as a natural heritage area; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3743/21]

Malcolm Noonan (Carlow-Kilkenny, Green Party)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

There are 632 proposed natural heritage areas, including the area to which the Deputy refers. While a review of these sites is foreseen, the current focus of my Department is on fulfilling Ireland’s obligations under the EU Habitats and Birds Directives and the designation of Natura 2000 sites, i.e. special areas of conservation and special protection areas.

Although proposed natural heritage area sites are not subject to the protection provisions of the Wildlife (Amendment) Act 2000, they may be recognised in local authority development plans.