Rural Independent TDs seek new conditions for nature designation of farmland

Dáil bid for better designation consultation and compensation failed but minister of state 'takes on board' points made by rural TDs

Minister of state for heritage and electoral reform Malcolm Noonan (right) met recently with commonage farmers at Brandon Hill, Co Kilkenny, to discuss controlled burning and other issues, such as challenges and opportunities in achieving better outcomes for farming and nature.

Rural Independent TDs failed last week in a Dáil attempt to ensure that farmers are consulted more fully before designation of their land as nature sites, and are better compensated, if designation goes ahead.

During the debate on the Planning and Development, Heritage and Broadcasting (Amendment) Bill 2021, Tipperary Independent TD Mattie McGrath tabled an amendment seeking additional compensation and other conditions.