8 November 2006

Environment

Non-conformity with Habitats Directive

Ciarán Cuffe asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if his Department had contact with the European Commission since Ireland was issued with a final written warning over its non-conformity with the habitats directive; the action his Department has taken to meet the directive requirements; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (Mr. Roche):  
On 18 October, the European Commission issued a Reasoned Opinion requiring Ireland to complete the task of publishing Special Areas of Conservation (SACs) and transmit the final list of SACs to the Commission. It is accepted by both sides that while substantial progress has already been made in this regard, the process must urgently be brought to finality.

On 24 October my Department met with the European Commission to discuss Ireland’s actions in response to the Reasoned Opinion. These will include measures to improve the efficiency and finality of the SAC appeals process, with a view to guaranteeing the definitive designation of SACs.

My Department will continue to work closely with the Commission to secure a satisfactory resolution of this case.