20 years later, Ireland complies with EU wildlife law

IRELAND is finally in compliance with European law protecting wildlife 20 years after the legislation was first introduced.

Regulations signed into law yesterday oblige local authorities and An Bord Pleanála to ensure that vulnerable species of birds, animals and plants are not further endangered by development plans and planning permissions.

The European Communities (Birds and Natural Habitats) Regulations 2011 also clarify who is responsible for designating land as special protection areas, in which birds can not be disturbed, and special areas of conservation, which protect habitats like raised bogs, sand dunes and woods.