Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 3 March 2026
583. Deputy Sorca Clarke asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage to provide a list of all designated conservation areas across the State, by location and the local authority under whose remit they fall. [16384/26]
View answerSites of significance at a European level are known as Natura 2000 sites, and designated for protection under the EU Nature Directives. These sites fall into two categories: Special Areas of Conservation (SACs) and Special Protection Areas (SPAs) as set out below.
SACs are prime wildlife conservation areas, selected under the EU Habitats Directive which was transposed into Irish law by the European Communities (Birds and Natural Habitats) Regulations 2011. The Directive lists certain habitats and species that must be protected within SACs.
SPAs are designated for the protection of listed rare and vulnerable bird species, regularly occurring migratory species and wetlands, especially those of international importance. They are selected under the EU Birds Directive.
A list of all SACs and SPA's across Ireland is set out in the spreadsheet attached for your information.
