Lough Derg may be designated as protection area for birds

THE state has moved to designate Lough Derg as a special protection area (SPA) for birds.

Similar moves to designate the lower Shannon estuary an SPA have sparked concerns by the Midwest Regional Authority.

In response, the promoters of contentious plans for a seaplane service out of Lough Derg said yesterday that the proposed designation will not affect their plans.