Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 22 March 2023
131. Deputy Jennifer Whitmore asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage if he will provide an update on the Development a new National Invasive Species Management Plan; if any legislation is forthcoming on invasives; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14212/23]
View answerMy Department is responsible for the implementation of the Wildlife Acts and the European Communities (Birds and Natural Habitats) Regulations 2011, both of which prohibit activities which introduce or spread invasive species. In addition to national legislation, EU Regulation 1143/2014 on Invasive Alien Species also provides for a range of concerted EU wide measures to be taken with respect to listed species of Union concern (the 'Union list').
The development of a national invasive alien species management plan is a priority in my Department and work is already underway on the drafting of this plan. To assist with this work, a steering committee of stakeholders and national experts has been convened. The first meeting of the Committee took place on 8 March 2023. The National Parks and Wildlife Service is leading on this work and will report to me with updates on progress in this matter.
New legislation dealing with invasive alien species is at an advanced stage and is currently being finalised in my Department. This legislation will strengthen the legislative framework dealing with invasive alien species, particularly with regard to those listed species identified as being in trade. It will also give effect to aspects of the EU IAS Regulation (1143/2014) requiring Member State action.
