Malcolm Noonan (Carlow-Kilkenny, Green Party)
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Ireland, like all Member States, is bound by the requirements of the EU Nature Directives which aim to ensure the protection of habitats and species within Special Areas of Conservation (SACs) and special protection areas (SPAs).

My Department writes to all identified land owners with a legal interest in a site, outlining the intention to designate the site, the appeals process that can be undertaken and how to get further information. Public notices in relation to the proposed designation are also advertised in the media, and Government Departments, public authorities, State and semi-State agencies and bodies representing environmental, farming and business interests are notified directly.

Where a landowner has a query in relation to a specific site, the best course of action is to contact my officials in the National Parks and Wildlife Service by email at natureconservation@housing.gov.ie, and they will be happy to assist.