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The possibility of further land designations have not been ruled out by Minister for Heritage Malcolm Noonan.
Minister Noonan, a Green Party TD, made the comments after meetings with the Irish Farmers Association (IFA) and the Irish Natura and Hill Farmers Association (INHFA).
Following the meeting, IFA president Tim Cullinan had welcomed a “clear and unequivocal commitment” from the Minister that there are no plans for more land designations.
However Minister Noonan has clarified that he has not made any decision on further designations, as his Department awaits further information from the European Commission.
“While I did not make any definitive statement about any further designations as my Department is still awaiting further information from the European Commission on its proposals for better protection for biodiversity in the EU Biodiversity Strategy, I stressed that I would consult with relevant organisations on what options are most suited to achieving that protection,” Noonan said.
Biodiversity strategy
The EU's biodiversity strategy outlines plans for 30% of all land in Europe to be designated for biodiversity, with 10% of that land defined as “strictly protected".
Minister Noonan said he is committed to listening carefully to concerns about designations and engaging in further consultation with farmers and farm organisation.
He praised the constructive nature of the IFA and INHFA at recent meetings.
“I look forward to that continuing and I look forward to working together as we pursue shared and agreed objectives on our heritage and biodiversity,” the Minister concluded.
SHARING OPTIONS: