Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 17 February 2026
798. Deputy Mairéad Farrell asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage if he plans to weaken the implementation of the EU Habitats Directive in Ireland considering his published comments in the aftermath of the recent catastrophic flooding in Enniscorthy, County Wexford; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12083/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Habitats Directive (Council Directive 92/43/EEC) contributes to ensuring biodiversity in the European Union by conserving natural habitats and wild fauna and flora species. The Directive is transposed in to Irish law through, inter alia, the European Communities (Birds and Natural Habitats) Regulations 2011.
As an EU Directive, it is incumbent upon Member States to achieve the goals of the Habitats Directive.
The European Commission recently presented an Environmental Omnibus proposal aimed at the simplification of administrative burdens in environmental legislation, and the Government and my Department is currently engaging in this process, with the Commission.
