Latest news with #EasternandMidlandRegionalAssembly
Irish Independent
21-07-2025
- Politics
- Irish Independent
N81 upgrade in west Wicklow at risk of facing further delays
Fine Gael TD Edward Timmins highlighted a range of studies which have identified the N81 as 'one of the most dangerous roads in the country.' He outlined to the chamber that a preferred route option for an upgrade had been selected but was shelved in 2018 and called for its reinstatement in the upcoming National Development Plan (NDP). 'The N81 is the only national road out of Dublin that has never been upgraded,' Timmins said. 'This needs to be put into the national development plan, NDP. I ask that it be considered for inclusion in the new NDP.' In response, Public Expenditure Minister Jack Chambers said several safety measures have already been introduced or are in the process of being delivered. These include €400,000 in funding for a realignment project near Stratford-on-Slaney; appointment of technical advisers to progress the scheme through planning; traffic-calming works near Hollywood village; and smaller interventions at Blessington and Baltinglass. Deputy Chambers confirmed that further decisions regarding the N81's inclusion in the new NDP would be made by Transport Minister Darragh O'Brien. Minister O'Brien previously told Wicklow Sinn Féin TD John Brady that the N81 Tallaght to Hollywood upgrade was not included among the projects identified in the updated NPD that was published in 2021. 'As such, until a full review takes place, the advancement of the proposed scheme cannot be accommodated in the National Roads Programme.' The scheme was not included in projects identified in 2019 for development during the 2018-2027 period of the NDP, meaning it will face delays until at least 2027. Meanwhile Baltinglass Municipal District Councillors have called on their fellow local representatives to lobby for the upgrading of the road along the preferred route. Speaking during the July monthly meeting of Wicklow County Council, Cllr Avril Cronin said the council need to fight the corner of the people in west Wicklow and ensure that the N81 gets back on the agenda. 'Sometimes it feels like we are fighting a losing battle here and I would hope that we have the support of management and that a submission has also been made in relation to that review.' 'I along with Councillor Patsy Glennon are members of the Eastern and Midland Regional Assembly and we put forward a submission to try and get the N81 back on the table. It's something that the six councillors in the Baltinglass Municipal District raised time and time again.' Cllr Glennon echoed those sentiments calling on the council executive team to get behind it and get something moving on it. 'We get tired of listening about congestion on the N11. I know it is a big fact for lots of our colleagues here, but we don't seem to get fair traction for our problems out our side.' In response, Wicklow County Council chief executive Emer O'Gorman said they will push for the upgrade to be included as part of the plan 'We have consulted with the Eastern and Midland Regional Assembly. We are very happy to support the submission and delighted to have it included and we will push for that inclusion as well ourselves. It is important. The N81 is a national primary route on paper and on paper alone so changes need to happen to it.' 'I think it is hugely important that the N81 is upgraded and brought to a standard that is reasonable, you know the same standard as the other national routes in the county.' she added. Funded by the Local Democracy Reporting Scheme
Agriland
22-05-2025
- General
- Agriland
Research: ‘Strong' public support for wetland restoration
New research unveiled today (Thursday, May 22) at the 'Tóchar: A Path from the Past, A Future for Wetlands' conference reveals a strong public interest in wetlands. The RED C research, commissioned by the Tóchar Midlands Wetlands Restoration Project, provides insights into Irish attitudes toward wetlands, restoration benefits, and the perceived impact on rural livelihoods. The findings were presented during a lively day of discussions and community engagement at the conference, where the opening address from John Feehan explored the role of ecological processes for the future of wetlands. The event brought together policymakers, ecologists, landowners, contractors, and local voices to explore the path ahead for wetlands in the midlands. Held in Abbeyleix, Co. Laois, the event opened with a 'Wake Up to the Bog' walk and featured keynote addresses from representatives of the European Commission and the Eastern and Midland Regional Assembly (EMRA), National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS), Tóchar Project representatives and a range of community voices such as Abbeyleix Bog Project, Women in Nature Restoration and the Tóchar Fens Restoration project. Welcoming the research, Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage James Browne said: 'Through the Tóchar Project, the National Parks and Wildlife Service is restoring vital wetlands not only to protect biodiversity, but also to ensure that communities who have long been dependent on peatlands are part of a fair and inclusive transition. 'I am delighted that the NPWS is supporting initiatives like Tóchar that combine social equity with environmental stewardship. 'The research being launched today highlights the deep connection Irish people feel to our wetlands and underscores the public's growing support for nature-based solutions to climate and biodiversity challenges. 'We need to ensure that meeting these challenges delivers climate action benefits while preserving livelihoods and our heritage,' the minister added. Speaking about the research, Minister of State for nature, heritage and biodiversity, Christopher O'Sullivan added: 'The restoration of Ireland's wetlands is a vital step in protecting our natural heritage and tackling climate change. Stephanie Ganter-Houzel, programme manager, Directorate General for Regional and Urban Policy, European Commission; Shirley Clerkin, project manager, Tòchar Midlands Wetlands Restoration Scheme; Clare Bannon, acting director, Eastern and Midland Regional Assembly. Image source: Karl Hussey Photography 'These ecosystems are at the heart of our biodiversity and play a crucial role in flood management, carbon storage, and sustaining rural communities. 'Through the Tóchar Project, we are not just restoring landscapes, we are strengthening the connection between people and nature. 'This initiative ensures that wetland restoration is carried out in a way that benefits both the environment and the communities who have relied on these lands for generations.' The junior minister said the government is committed to working with all stakeholders to create a sustainable future where conservation and rural livelihoods can thrive side by side. Research on attitudes to wetlands The research was commissioned to better understand how people across Ireland perceive wetlands and their restoration and this was a key topic of discussion throughout the event. The findings reinforced many of the themes raised during panel discussions and storytelling sessions, such as 'Stories from the Community' and 'The Irish Perspective: Reflections on the Past and a Look to the Future', where local peat contractors, landowners, and ecologists shared their lived experiences and aspirations for the transition. The project group has said that it is clear that while there is strong support for nature-based solutions like wetland restoration, the concerns of rural communities whose lives and traditions are closely tied to these landscapes need to be acknowledged. Key research findings include: 61% of Irish adults have visited a wetland area, with this number rising to nearly 70% in the EU Just Transition Territory counties; Nature restoration (72%), flood mitigation (57%), and carbon storage (50%) rank as the top perceived benefits of wetland restoration; While many support wetland restoration, 49% of respondents express concern about its impact, particularly on traditional rural livelihoods; One in three Irish adults have heard of wetland restoration projects, but there is a need for better communication and community engagement. Awareness is significantly higher in the EU Just Transition Territory counties. The Tóchar Project, a three-year initiative managed by the NPWS and co-funded by the Government of Ireland and the European Union through the EU Just Transition Fund, is dedicated to restoring vital landscapes across the midlands. Ireland's wetlands play a crucial role in biodiversity conservation, carbon storage, and climate resilience. However, many of these fragile ecosystems have been degraded over time, according to Tóchar. The project is focusing on restoring degraded wetlands in Kildare, Galway, Roscommon, Laois, Longford, Offaly, Tipperary, and Westmeath, working closely with local communities to ensure a just transition. Tóchar project manager, Shirley Clerkin stressed the importance of collaboration: 'The research shows that wetland restoration is about more than just conservation; it's about people and their ongoing relationship with their environment. 'The survey results demonstrate an understanding of wetland ecosystem benefits but also show where we need to work together to enhance and build capacity for wetland restoration in the midlands. 'By working with communities, landowners, and peat contractors we can create a legacy of sustainable living, climate resilience, and biodiversity protection that benefits everyone.' The event closed with a 'Rejuvenation Bog Walk', allowing attendees to experience first-hand the landscapes that are the focus of Ireland's wetland restoration movement.
