Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 9 October 2024
113. Deputy Jim O'Callaghan asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage the total number of local authority biodiversity officers currently employed; the funding provided by his Department; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40625/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraBiodiversity Officers have been appointed by 28 local authorities. Funding from my Department, administered by the Heritage Council, provides a part subvention for 27 of these through the Heritage Council Biodiversity Officer Programme. Expenditure on salary and expenses by the Heritage Council for these Biodiversity Officers is expected to be €1.5 million by year end. In addition, 22 grants were offered to local authorities under the Local Biodiversity Action Plan Grant Scheme, to a total of €375,000. Contact details for LA Biodiversity Officers can be found here - www.heritagecouncil.ie/our-work-with-others/biodiversity-officer-programme.
