Latest news with #ChristopherO'Sullivan
Irish Independent
3 days ago
- General
- Irish Independent
Meath County Council awarded over €100,000 for biodiversity projects
The announcement was made by Minister for Housing, Heritage and Local Government James Browne, TD, and Minister of State for Nature, Heritage and Biodiversity Christopher O'Sullivan, TD. The funding comes under the National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) Local Biodiversity Action Fund (LBAF), a scheme established in 2018 to help local authorities implement biodiversity actions at local and regional levels. Since its creation, almost €11m has been distributed through the fund. Minister James Browne said: 'Local authorities are playing an essential role in protecting our biodiversity and the Local Biodiversity Action Plan recognises that role. Through these projects, each local authority will make a unique impact on their local biodiversity, but is also part of a bigger picture across the country. He added: 'I welcome the focus on partnership, research and best practice. I wish all of those involved the very best with the work and look forward to hearing more as they progress.' Minister Christopher O'Sullivan highlighted the range of work being undertaken: 'I'm really impressed with the diversity of projects funded this year. The Local Biodiversity Action Fund will enable every local authority around the country to enhance their actions on biodiversity, including research and recording of our unique species, from the Irish Mayfly, Woodland Bats to barn owls, and management of precious habitats such as meadows and wetlands.' Meanwhile Ben Malone, Biodiversity Officer with Meath County Council, also welcomed the support. He said: 'We're delighted with the support received this year through the Local Biodiversity Action Fund. Our projects in Meath build on the success of previous years, supporting people to create habitats for wildlife, managing our own lands better for biodiversity, addressing urgent conservation needs and adding to our state of knowledge on biodiversity in the county.' Among the projects funded in Meath this year are: County Meath Wetland Survey – Phase 1 County Meath Tree, Woodland and Hedgerow Survey – Phase 1 Invasive Alien Species Project – Quagga Mussel in Lough Sheelin Invasive Alien Species Project – Common Cordgrass in the Nanny Estuary Recording Irish Mayfly – establishing conservation status The Hare's Corner – assisting landowners to create new habitats for biodiversity Commons of Lloyd Biodiversity and Conservation Agriculture Project Continuation of Barn Owl Conservation Project Development of the Woodland Bat Monitoring Scheme Community biodiversity initiatives and outreach support This funding is said to support the objectives of Ireland's 4th National Biodiversity Action Plan, Actions For Nature, launched in January 2024. For the first time, the plan has been published on a statutory basis under the Wildlife Amendment Act 2023, requiring public bodies to integrate biodiversity into their policies and report on progress. By 2050, the plan envisions that 'Biodiversity in Ireland is valued, conserved, restored and sustainably used, maintaining ecosystem services, sustaining a healthy planet and delivering benefits essential for all people.' Funded by the Local Democracy Reporting Scheme
Agriland
21-05-2025
- Science
- Agriland
NPWS events to celebrate Irish Natura 2000 sites
Some of the country's most valuable sites for nature are being celebrated today (Wednesday, May 21) to mark Natura 2000 day. The Natura 2000 Network includes over 27,000 protected sites across the European Union, covering nearly 20% of Europe's land and almost 10% of its marine waters. It is the world's largest network of protected sites. Ireland is home to more than 600 Natura 2000 sites, which protect a wide range of valuable habitats and species under the EU Habitats Directive Special Areas of Conservation (SACs) and the Birds Directive Special Protection Areas (SPAs) Natura 2000 To mark Natura 2000 day, the National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) is supporting Bioblitzes and other events in Natura sites around the country. Bioblitzes bring together scientists and citizen scientists to record as many species as possible in a short time at a Natura 2000 site. During the week NPWS staff are hosting bioblitzes at sites including St Gobnet's Wood SAC in Co. Cork, Connemara National Park, Coole Park in Co. Galway, and Killarney National Park in Co. Kerry. Speaking on Natura 2000 Day, Minister of State for Nature, Heritage and Biodiversity, Christopher O'Sullivan encouraged members of the public to discover their local Natura 2000 site. 'The Natura 2000 network includes some of the finest examples of habitats and species we have in this country and in Europe. 'It is a network of protected sites which highlights the biodiverse and unique natural heritage in Ireland and in Europe. 'Conservation is a shared responsibility and today is an opportunity for everyone to learn about a site near you and how it is being managed and protected for future generations,' he said. Restoration The minister said that Natura 2000 Day is also an opportunity to recognise the restoration work that landowners and the NPWS are undertaking together on these sites. These include projects focused on actively restoring raised and blanket bog habitat designated as SACs under the Habitats Directive. Recent surveys are showing significant positive trends in respect of raised bog sites, which are beginning to move towards more favourable conservation condition. Old Oak woodland is being restored in Glen of the Downs SAC, Co. Wicklow by removing the invasive alien species Cherry Laurel, and Lapwing are being protected in Co. Mayo in the Termoncarragh lake and Annagh Machair SPA. Niall Ó Donnchú, director general with the NPWS, said the Natura 2000 network is 'a central part of our natural heritage in Ireland'. 'Many of the sites in the network in Ireland are in public ownership and are accessible, for example, our national parks, while other sites are in private ownership. 'The landowners and stakeholders in all the sites in Ireland are working together to protect and restore these vitally important habitats and species. 'Natura 2000 Day is a reminder of the diverse and unique natural heritage we have and can be proud of in Ireland,' he said.
Agriland
20-05-2025
- General
- Agriland
€2.9m in funding for local biodiversity projects
€2.9 million in funding is to be allocated to local authorities for biodiversity projects under the National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) Local Biodiversity Action Fund (LBAF) in 2025. All 31 local authorities applied for and will receive funding this year, with a total of 262 projects across the country approved. The projects cover a range of biodiversity related activities, including invasive alien species control; bird and bat conservation; wetland surveys and community biodiversity awareness and training. Biodiversity The LBAF was established in 2018 to help local authorities in the implementation of actions in support of biodiversity. Almost €11 million has been granted to local authorities through since the scheme began. The scheme is operated by the NPWS and supports the implementation of the Ireland's fourth National Biodiversity Action Plan at community, county and regional level. Examples of projects funded under this year's scheme include: Seven local authorities will participate in the 'Hare's Corner' projects with the aim of creating new habitats such as ponds, woodlands and orchards to benefit biodiversity; Five local authorities will undertake 'Return to Nature' projects, in support of the Catholic Church's ambition to return 30% of church grounds to nature by 2030; Artificial lighting training for local authorities in Connacht: Six local authorities delivered workshops on artificial lighting, bringing together experts from Dark Sky Ireland, NPWS and Mayo County Council, to support the development and delivery of policies and actions to reduce light pollution; Establishing effective guidance and control protocols for invasive freshwater turtles of EU Concern in Ireland: Seven local authorities will participate in this project to provide a workable guidance and protocol document for anyone who deals with these species. Minister for Housing, Heritage and Local Government James Browne said that local authorities are playing an essential role in protecting biodiversity. 'Through these projects, each local authority will make a unique impact on their local biodiversity, but is also part of a bigger picture across the country. 'I welcome the focus on partnership, research and best practice. I wish all of those involved the very best with the work and look forward to hearing more as they progress,' he said. Minister of State for Nature, Heritage and Biodiversity, Christopher O'Sullivan TD added that he was impressed by the diversity of projects funded this year. 'The Local Biodiversity Action Fund will enable every local authority around the country to enhance their actions on biodiversity, including research and recording of our unique species, from the Irish Mayfly, woodland Bats to barn owls, and management of precious habitats such as meadows and wetlands. 'I'd like to commend local authorities for stepping up their efforts to tackle invasive species, including Japanese Knotweed and Himalayan Balsam, which pose a real threat to our landscapes and marine environment,' he said.
Agriland
12-05-2025
- Agriland
200 events planned for National Biodiversity Week
Ireland's nature and wildlife will take centre stage from May 16-25, with over 200 events scheduled across the country for National Biodiversity Week. As well as highlighting the importance of biodiversity, National Biodiversity Week is also about experiencing the fun, enjoyment and spectacle of the nature and connecting with a wilder world. The annual 10-day celebration of nature and wildlife offers a variety of free events and activities for the whole family. Organised by the Irish Environmental Network and funded by the National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS), the week will provide opportunities for the public to connect with nature and learn from local experts and groups actively working to protect natural heritage. Minister of State for nature, heritage and biodiversity, Christopher O'Sullivan said: 'National Biodiversity Week is a fantastic opportunity for everyone to connect with nature, and to experience first-hand its importance in our lives. 'During the week we can appreciate, and also learn, simple but powerful actions that we can all take which will protect nature. 'The Irish Environmental Network has put together a really impressive programme of events this year, with support from the National Parks and Wildlife Service. 'It's encouraging to see even more events happening around the country this year, and I'd like to thank all of the organisations, agencies, and NGOs who collectively make the week such a success.' National Biodiversity Week The minister of state has also encouraged people to visit a national park, nature reserve or protected area, many of which will be hosting events and activities throughout the week. Events will reach communities in every corner of Ireland, showcasing coasts, rivers and estuaries, hedgerows, wetlands, native woodlands and the marine environment. Guided nature walks and field trips for children will introduce participants to pollinators and other biodiversity in local greenspaces. Hands-on workshops will cover topics ranging from composting and willow weaving to bat box building and pond creation. The public is encouraged to discover wildlife with whale watching, farm walks, bat walks, biodiversity cycle tours and art workshops. Amateur nature photographers are invited to submit photos for the 13th annual Biodiversity Photographer of the Year competition, happening throughout May. As people gather to celebrate biodiversity across Ireland, there will also be discussion on how to protect and restore biodiversity. As National Biodiversity Week kicks off, a variety of in-person and virtual events will bring communities together nationwide to be inspired by nature and learn how to pitch in to protect it. Families and students can even participate in National Biodiversity Week at home through special events like the 'Biodiversity Scavenger Hunt', a self-guided activity to discover wildlife in gardens or local parks. Welcoming the launch of National Biodiversity Week, chief executive officer of the Irish Environmental Network, Karen Ciesielski said: 'It is a fantastic opportunity to celebrate Ireland's fascinating wildlife and habitats at free events nationwide. 'People all around the country can learn more about the natural world surrounding them and how to take actions that support wildlife and biodiversity. 'Discovering the wonder of nature is the first step to local dialogue and action to restore biodiversity in Ireland. 'By reconnecting people to a wilder world and the wonders of nature, Biodiversity Week is also a call to action to help address the alarming decline in our natural habitats. National Biodiversity Week not only celebrates nature but inspires people to protect and enhance it.' Director general of the NPWS, Niall Ó Donnchú added: 'NPWS is delighted to support this important initiative and to see it going from strength to strength. 'This week is about putting it in our nature to protect nature. Enhancing public awareness about nature is key to delivering the National Biodiversity Action Plan, and weeks like this help us to do that. 'It is a fantastic time of year to enjoy the annual awakening of nature in all its vibrant symphony of sounds, sights and scents.'
Agriland
08-05-2025
- General
- Agriland
State purchases corncrake breeding site on Belmullet Peninsula
Minister of State for nature, heritage and biodiversity Christopher O'Sullivan has announced that the state has purchased a corncrake breeding site on Belmullet peninsula, Co. Mayo. The 5.75ha site provides 'the perfect habitat of the corncrake', according to the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage, including protection for the birds and a sustainable source of food. The announcement of the purchase comes as the department launches a new 'Natura Communities' initiative. Minister O' Sullivan said the site 'maintains 25% of the local corncrake population, and is of huge, strategic importance to the survival of the species'. 'By purchasing the site, we're making a further commitment to protect it. The site lends itself well to research and education due to location, road access and scale, and will enhance conservation management already underway.' 'Over the past five years, the corncrake population has increased by 35%, and here in Mayo the population has doubled. These impressive results are testament to the collaboration here on the Belmullet Peninsula,' the minister added. He drew attention to the role of farmers and landowners in this collaboration, as well as the National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS). A special event was held today (Thursday, May 8) to launch the Natura Communities initiative, hosted by the Wild Atlantic Nature Project, and attended by Minister of State at the Department of Climate, Energy and the Environment Alan Dillon, who is a Mayo TD. Minister Dillon commented: 'Today's announcement marks a significant step forward in our commitment to preserving Ireland's natural heritage. 'The acquisition of the corncrake breeding site on the Belmullet peninsula and the launch of the Natura Communities Initiative are testaments to our dedication to conservation. 'By working together with local communities, farmers, and environmental organisations, we are not only protecting vital habitats but also ensuring a sustainable future for our biodiversity,' Minister Dillon added. The Natura Communities initiative aims to improve the conservation status in the Special Areas of Conservation (SAC) network of blanket bogs, a priority habitat under the EU Habitats Directive. The project is led by Wild Atlantic Nature, and focuses on 35 Natura 2000 sites in the northwest of Ireland, working with farmers, landowners, policy-makers and others to deliver solutions that benefit local communities and the environment. The initiative has been piloted in Ireland since 2022. It has been developed to help deliver wetland and other ecosystem restoration at the local level, including input from local authorities via biodiversity officers and climate action teams. Presently, approximately 40 locally based and trained staff are employed by the three existing Wild Atlantic Nature Natura communities groups operating in counties Galway, Mayo and Donegal, with the objective of expanding the initiative across the country.
