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Environmental information systems
To report on progress to the EU 2020 biodiversity strategy, the European Commission extracted relevant information from the EU Member States’ 5th national reports to the CBD. Of the 5 countries which had not finalized their national reports at the time of the synthesis (26th of August 2015), Greece, Malta, Portugal and Lithuania provided information to be included in the synthesis.
The 5th national reports were examined, and relevant information on selected actions under Targets 1-6 of the EU biodiversity strategy was directly copied. Thus, the information presented here is in the original language and wording of the 5th national reports.
The focus was on information that is particular to the respective Member State rather than referencing EU wide information. In addition, only information that is not directly reported to the European Commission by Member States was retrieved from the reports. Each Member State had the opportunity to review the synthesis of its report and to provide additional input. For more information, please view here. The 5th national report for Ireland can be downloaded here.
EU target 1
Fully implement the Birds and Habitats Directives
(Please note that information from Member States in relation to Action 1a is supplied to the European Commission via other reports. To avoid duplication of reporting, information relating to Action 1a has not been included in this report)
Action 1b: Natura 2000 (and other protected areas)
Both the transposition of the Habitats Directive into the Planning and Development Act 2010 and the EC (Birds and Natural Habitats) Regulations 2011 are under ongoing review. DAHG continues to draft amendments further supporting implementation and enforcement, clarifying administrative procedures and related issues that have arisen in the course of operation. It has not been possible due to staffing constraints to commence a full review of the Wildlife Acts. In 2014 NPWS commissioned Invasive Species Risk Assessments on species known to be traded which are listed in the Third Schedule to the European Communities (Birds and Natural Habitats) Regulations 2011, to enable commencement of Regulation 50 of the EC (Birds and Natural Habitats) Regulations 2011.
The provisions of the Planning and Development Act 2010 Part XAB, the Environment (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 2011 ensure that both plans and individual projects are compliant with the Habitat and Birds Directives. The DECLG is the competent authority in executing the Planning and Development Act and DAHG the statutory consultee in relation to plans or projects that may impact on Natura 2000 sites and species
While some dedicated Local Biodiversity Plans are being produced, most recently in Co. Clare, biodiversity actions by the local authorities generally have been incorporated into the Heritage Plan process. Heritage Plans were produced by 29 local authorities since the start of 2000, usually with an operational period of four or five years. There are 10 Heritage Plans that are current for 2014 and subsequent years, but many local authorities still use the older Heritage Plan as the framework for progressing heritage (including biodiversity) actions. Local authorities that have current Heritage Plans are Clare, South Dublin, Fingal, Galway (county), Mayo, Monaghan, Offaly, Roscommon, South Tipperary and Wicklow
Positive incentive measures have been included in the draft new rural development programme (RDP) which is currently awaiting Commission approval. A Strategic environmental assessment and an appropriate assessment have been carried out on the draft programme to ensure there are no adverse effects on biodiversity from the measures when implemented. The draft RDP includes provision for the continuation and expansion of the Burren Farming for Conservation Programme (see action 5.06). The AranLIFE project, funded by the EU LIFE+ funding programme (75%) and DAHG, Teagasc, The Heritage Council, DAFM, Galway Co. Council and Fáilte Ireland (25%), is a demonstration project operating on three Aran Islands from 2014-2017. It will seek to develop and demonstrate the best conservation management practices of local farmers on the designated Natura 2000 sites. Specifically, farm management plans detailing grazing practices, field access, scrub control, access to water for stock and grassland nutrient management will be developed for ca. 70 farms.The Natterjack Toad Scheme continues to pay farmers in Co. Kerry to provide pond habitat for the expansion of the toad’s range and population.
The European Parliament has endorsed the European Maritime and Fisheries Fund (EMFF). With a budget of €6.5 billion for 2014-2020, the fund will finance projects to implement the new reformed Common Fisheries Policy (CFP) and provide financial support to fishermen, fish farmers and coastal communities to adapt to the changed rules. The Fund will also finance projects to boost 'blue' growth and jobs under the EU's Integrated Maritime Policy (IMP). The new EMFF will provide investment and funding opportunities to help reduce the impact of fisheries on the marine environment and to rebuild fish stocks. The fund will also help eliminate discarding practices – a key aspect of the new policy. It will also assist the coordination of the Integrated Maritime Policy. Funding will focus on initiatives that benefit multiple sectors such as maritime spatial planning, integrated maritime surveillance and marine knowledge. The Forest Service of the Department of Agriculture, Food & the Marine is the consenting authority in relation to the main forestry operations of afforestation, forest road construction, thinning, clearfelling and replanting, and the aerial fertilisation of forests. Through core forestry legislation and related environmental legislation (e.g. national legislation transposing the Habitats Directive and the Water Framework Directive), the Forest Service assesses the environmental impact of any particular proposal and will only issue consent where that proposal is compatible with the protection of the environment. This is achieved through a system of GIS-based and field inspections, the application of AA Screening and screening for EIS, referral with statutory consultees, the application of various mandatory 'guidelines', requirements and protocols, and the attachment of environmental conditions to any licence or consent issued, as required. Various measures are also in place to actively promote biodiversity, ranging from the necessity to include 15% Areas of Biodiversity Enhancement within all new afforestation projects, to the development and implementation of the Native Woodland Scheme, a specific Forest Service funding package developed in partnership with NPWS, Inland Fisheries Ireland, Woodlands of Ireland and others, and aimed specifically at protecting, enhancing and expanding native woodland and the delivery of associated eco-system services (see 5.07).
The Forestry Act was passed into law on the 26 October, 2014. Once commenced, the Forestry Act 2014 (Act No. 31 of 2014) will replace the current 1946 Forestry Act. The primary purpose of the Act is to reform and update the legislative framework relating to forestry and to support the development of a modern forest sector, which operates in accordance with good forest practice and with a view to the protection of the environment. The Act sets out the specific role of Minister of Agriculture, Food and the Marine in safeguarding the environment; includes overarching provisions relating to the protection of the environment; integrates the requirements and procedures under the EIA Directive, the Birds and Habitats Directives, and the Water Framework Directive; creates greater flexibility to the Minister in term of attaching environmental conditions to an approval or licence, and enforcing those conditions; and enables the Minister to produce supplementary regulations, if needed to give effect to the principles and policies set down in the Act, under various headings, including " (y) protection of the environment, habitats and biodiversity; A number of provisions are included (under Sections 5, 7, 11, and 30) which are designed to integrate the protection of the environment and associated legal requirements under various relevant EU Directives and transposing national legislation into the central decision-making processes regarding the granting of approvals and licences etc. by the Department.
The Water Framework Directive National Monitoring Program is in place. Water Framework Directive Programs of Measures project ongoing which is aimed at standardising WFD data and getting it into a common information system for management. New governance arrangements are almost finalised. The Water Framework Directive Governance is being reconsidered with the potential that the responsibilities between DECLG, EPA and LAs would be revised for 2nd cycle of RBM planning. Implementation of cycle 1 Programmes of Measures by DECLG is ongoing. Preparations for the second cycle of river basin management planning is underway. New governance arrangements are being put in place and a work programme for delivery of new RBMPs will be published for public consultation in June 2014.
Licensing of waste water regime is now in place and septic tank inspections are being carried out with a target of 1,000 risk-based inspections p.a. Ireland's 3rd Nitrates Action Programme was given legal effect in January by the European Union (Good Agricultural Practice for Protection of Waters) Regulations 2014. Implementation is on-going. It will be reviewed by end 2017 as required by the Nitrates Directive.
A Multi Criteria Analysis (MCA) framework is being developed which will guide the selection of options to manage flood risk. This MCA will be used for the options appraisal phase in 2015 as a component of the flood risk management plans and will account for environmental objectives including habitats and species in tandem with technical, social and economic objectives.
The OPW are continuing to ensure that all significant drainage, including both initial drainage and maintenance drainage, is assessed for its implications for biodiversity and particularly for wetlands. Under the national Environmental River Enhancement Programme 2013-2017, fisheries type enhancement works are carried out on a series of arterial drainage channels annually. These enhancement works create a more natural and diverse channel form which benefits not only fish, but the broader biodiversity of the river corridor.
The draft National Peatlands Strategy was issued for public consultation in 2014. DAHG is currently examining the submissions received, which number over 1,500 to date. The Peatlands Council and the Peatlands Strategy Implementation Group will advise on changes to the draft Strategy in advance of its submission to Government for adoption and aim for publication early in 2015. See also action 1.14 above.
Informed by the draft Action plans developed by BirdWatch Ireland, identify and implement a suite of agreed measures for the protection of categories of endangered bird species in the wider countryside. This will be delivered through the engagement and participation of all relevant stake-holders across the public, private and voluntary sectors.
- These draft Action Plans are under review in the context of the proposed Rural Development Plan.
Provide and implement guidelines for local authorities and other planning bodies on the protection of species listed in Annex IV of the Habitats Directive
- Guidelines have been drafted but require finalisation and circulation
Action 1c: Natura 2000 (and other protected areas)
Detailed site-specific conservation objectives have been published for 65 SACs and 32 SPAs, mainly coastal and marine sites. A draft National Peatlands Strategy, Raised Bog SAC Management Plan and Review of the Raised Bog NHAs were published in early 2014. Part of the approach is that Site-specific management plans will be put in place for all Raised Bog SACs and the intention is that this will be the case for Raised Bog NHAs in the future. No full management plans have been completed
The Prioritised Action Framework for Natura 2000 establishing conservation priorities for the next financial cycle (2014-2020) has been approved by Government and submitted to the EU. Since 2011, five EU Life projects have been successfully funded such as the Aran LIFE and Burren GeoparkLIFE projects, the LIFE Kerry Freshwater Pearl mussel conservation project (commenced in 2014) and the Raptor LIFE project focussing on connecting and restoring habitats for Hen Harrier, Merlin, Atlantic salmon and Brook Lamprey
Action 1d: Natura 2000 (and other protected areas)
There are frequent meetings on policy and technical issues between the relevant Departments/Agencies in both jurisdictions. Recent meetings have focussed on the potential for joint approaches for cross border conservation management programmes
Action 3a: Stakeholder awareness and enforcement
Notice Nature is Ireland's public awareness campaign on biodiversity The aim of the campaign is to raise awareness of the importance of biodiversity and to encourage everyone to play their part in its protection. This website links to other important initiatives such as the Green Schools Programme and the National Parks and Wildlife Service education centres.
The national biodiversity forum was re-established in 2014 and includes environmental NGOs and landowners.
Data link:
Action 3b: Stakeholder awareness and enforcement
The National SEA Forum has been established with all five environmental authorities (DAHG, DECLG, DAFM, DCENR, EPA) represented, with regional SEA/AA Fora established in association with the regional authorities. Fora meet annually with the full participation of local authorities in each region. The SEA Effectiveness Review and Action Plan was published in 2012, indicating that implementing legislation in Ireland is broadly appropriate and no significant difficulties arose with interpretation to date that would warrant substantial changes. In 2013, the EPA compiled and published a SEA Pack which provided guidance, checklists and reference material for use in the SEA and Plan making process, as well as a SEA Environmental Integration Guidance Document to assist Planning Authorities in the preparation and implementation of SEA for Plans, Programmes and Strategies in Ireland to comply with the SEA Directive. With regard to specific public bodies, Fáilte Ireland is undertaking a SEA of the development of Discovery Points along the Wild Atlantic Way, and DAFM is undertaking SEAs in relation to the preparation of the Seafood Operational Programme 2014 - 2020 and the National Strategic Plan for Aquaculture 2014 – 2020. The Minister for Agriculture Food and the Marine announced the start of SEA for the national Rural Development Plan in May 2014.
In 2011, the EPA produced guidance on the European Communities (Environmental Liability) Regulations 2008 and continue to enforce the regulations as required. In 2013, the EPA published the research reports of the ECORISK project exploring the potential for economic valuation of ecosystem services in the context of the Environmental Liability Directive and enforcing remediation, and in 2014 the EPA published guidance on systematically assessing and costing environmental liabilities
DAHG developing guidelines on screening for AA for Planning Authorities, prepared jointly with DECLG. The EPA are also developing best practice guidance for use of GIS in SEA, for cumulative effects assessment in SEA and for better practice in SEA for the Energy Sector.
Forest Service Appropriate Assessment Procedure Information Note (Consolidated version March 2013) , setting out how the procedure is applied by the Forest Service to applications for afforestation, forest road construction, thinning, clearfelling / replanting, and aerial fertilisation of forests. As set out in the Information Note, specific procedures are in place regarding Hen Harrier and Freshwater Pearl Mussel, and guidance given regarding the compilation of NATURA Impact Statements. The Forest Service is currently not issuing approvals for afforestation within Hen Harrier SPAs, pending the formulation of the Threat Response Plan for the species, led by NPWS. The Forest Service currently drafting Catchment Forest Management Plans for the priority 8 Freshwater Pearl Mussel Catchments. Based on the Forest Service AAP and a forestry operations options matrix, the plan will ensure that all forestry operations regulated by the Forest Service in these catchments is compatible with the protection and conservation of FPM and its habitat. Revision of forestry environmental guidelines by the Forest Service, DAFM, underway. These include guidelines directly related to biodiversity, and guidelines indirectly related (e.g. water quality guidelines). Revision to fully integrate requirements under Birds & Habitats Regs., Water Framework Directive, etc. and to reformulate the guidelines around specific operations, for clarity and ease of use.
To receive a payment under the Single Payment Scheme farmers must follow a variety of regulations including environmental regulations. This system is known as Cross Compliance. The regulations to follow are called Statutory Management Requirements (SMRs). There are two (main) SMR types with regard to farming and biodiversity and these have been updated from 2015 onwards: SMR2 - Conservation of Wild Birds and SMR3 - Conservation of Natural Habitats and of Wild Flora and Fauna. Guidance has been produced for farmers to assist in understanding these requirements. Any clear breaches of cross compliance in relation to SMR 2 and 3 encountered by DAHG staff are reported to DAFM.
Action 3c: Stakeholder awareness and enforcement
A nominated officer of Revenues Customs Service is a member of the EU Wildlife Trade Enforcement Group and attends each of the bi-annual meetings at the EU Commission. The agenda covers major developments as regards trends in legal and illegal trade, significant seizures and confiscations, court cases and other enforcement and training related issues. There was a National Wildlife Crime Conference held in September 2013 attended by representatives from Department, Customs, Garda Siochána and UK Wildlife Crime experts
Ensure adequate training in Wildlife Crime detection and enforcement is provided to all NPWS enforcement staff.
- Training courses have been arranged for Department’s authorised officials on courtroom skills and expert witness procedures
Since 2011, the Revenue Customs service has made 59 seizures, of which only two were of live species, Giant Clams and Red-eared Slider Turtles. The Revenue Customs service had one prosecution during the period. Two men were convicted of illegally importing eight Rhino horns at Shannon Airport in January 2010. They were each fined €500.Joint operations have been undertaken and are continuing between An Garda Síochána and the Department which has resulted in a number of successful prosecutions for breaches of the Wildlife Acts
Continue to enforce the Wildlife Acts and Regulations
- In the period 2011 to 2013 some 100 prosecution cases were taken by the Department under the Wildlife Acts and Habitats Regulations, of which 74 were successful
Action 4a & 4b: Monitoring and reporting
A set of indicators has been developed by NPWS and NBDC. The NBDC has developed a website to host the national biodiversity indicators and will release the completed indicators for consultation in early 2015.
The inter-agency INSPIRE/Irish Spatial Data Infrastructure steering committee (involving NPWS, EPA, DECLG, MI, OSI, Geological Survey of Ireland, National Transport Authority, Met Eireann, Local Authority GIS Users Group and the Property Registration Authority of Ireland)has been established and is progressing work on common data standards. The priority of this group is to implement the INSPIRE directive and habitats are covered under the 3rd annex, which has the latest deadlines. The committee is currently focussing more on Annex 1. The OSI have built a national geoportal for access to INSPIRE data, released in 2012. EPA and NPWS are currently working together to update the Water Dependant Habitat parts of the WFD Article 6 register of protected areas
The inter-agency INSPIRE/ISDI steering committee aims to finalise in 2014 an action plan for the implementation of the directive and the development of shared standards from data capture to data publishing, and develop metadata catalogues to interoperability of data across public bodies.
Monitoring programmes have been developed and initiated for upland, grassland, hard water lake, turlough, woodland, dune, saltmarsh, limestone habitats. Countryside Birds, Wintering Waterbirds, East Coast breeding Terns, Bats, Vertigo species, Seals, Crayfish, Petalwort, Sickle moss, Killarney fern, Clubmosses, Marsh Saxifrage, Marsh Fritillary, Otter, Irish hare, Frog and Natterjack toad (NPWS) and Salmon (IFI). Biodiversity elements are monitored as part of WFD monitoring undertaken by the EPA e.g. Crayfish. The NBDC undertake butterfly, bumblebee, and vascular plant monitoring programmes. Many different approaches are being considered including the development of specific apps (e.g. bats), the use of citizen science (e.g. butterfly), and real-time surveillance (NPWS Site Inspection Reporting programme). Monitoring of fish species trends is being undertaken by IFI under various programmes including the National Eel Monitoring Programme, the EU Habitats Directive (Fish) Programme which monitors ‘conservation fish species’, including the shads, lampreys, smelt, char, pollan and Atlantic salmon, and the Water Framework Directive Fish Monitoring programme which monitors fish populations at fixed sites using inter-calibrated techniques in river, lake and transitional waters. These programmes are delivered on a rolling basis delivering for target species and providing general fish biodiversity data. An extensive tagging programme contributes to monitoring elasmobranch distribution, movement, growth and exploitation, and coarse fish and pike are regularly monitored through direct stock assessment and tagging programmes. The use of technology (app/website) and targeted surveys of invasive fish, plant and other species contribute to identifying risks and protection of biodiversity.
Assessments completed for 2013 deadline for all habitats and species listed on the Habitats Directive, although not all assessments are underpinned by monitoring programmes. Current round of monitoring and investigation (2013 - 2018) is underway
Funded by DAHG, The Heritage Council, NIEA and EPA, and coordinated by BirdWatch Ireland, the Bird Atlas 2007-2011 provides an up to date picture of the distribution and relative abundance of Ireland’s birds and reveals how they have fared since the early 1970s. The Bird Atlas 2007 – 2011 combined with single species surveys (e.g. Hen Harrier, Common Scoter) and with data from the on-going bird monitoring programmes of the Countryside Bird Survey (CBS) and the Irish Wetland Bird Survey (I-WeBS) formed the basis for Ireland’s reporting under Article 12 of the Birds Directive for the period 2008 – 2012. These data sources also provided robust data to inform the second revision of the Birds of Conservation Concern in Ireland. In total, 185 species were assessed, 37 were placed on the Red list and 90 on the Amber list. BirdWatch Ireland developed group Species Action Plans for Irelands "priority, migratory and dispersed", birds based on their habitat requirements. The focus of the project are species that are Red or Amber listed in “Birds of Conservation Concern in Ireland”, as well as regularly occurring birds in Ireland found in Annex I of the European Birds Directive, and a few additional bird species needing protection.
The 2013 report to the EU under Article 17of the Habitats Directive provides information on status, trends and distribution of habitats and species listed in the Directive. Meanwhile, the report submitted in early 2014 under Article 12 of the Birds Directive provides information on the trends and range ofbirds. These data are currently being analysed. Many of the assessments are underpinned by scientific research. PhDs are ongoing or recently completed for Turloughs, Petrifying springs, Killarney fern and Protected Bryophytes. Detailed vegetation analysis has been undertaken for Uplands, grasslands, limestone, turlough and Juniper habitats. Scientific papers on trends and/or assessment methodologies have been published on Turloughs, Bats, Otter and Frog. Recent surveys have also been undertaken on Bees, Butterflies, Rare plants and semi-natural grasslands. Inland Fisheries Ireland have put in place an investigative programme on conservation fish in place for 2013 – 2018. Furthermore, both IFI and MI contributed to Red Data Book on fish, amphibians and reptiles in 2011, and sharks, skates and rays in 2014. The COFORD funded PLANFORBIO research programme involving UCC, TCD and WIT relating to sustainable forest management and monitoring was completed in 2013.
EU target 2
Maintain and restore ecosystems and their services
There has been very little change in the quality of lakes, rivers and transitional waters in the last 10 years with approximately half considered to be in good status
The percentage number of high quality river sites has almost halved in the last 21 years from almost 30 per cent of the total sampled in the 1987-1990 period to less than 17 per cent in 2007-2009.
Investment in waste water infrastructure has resulted in significant improvements in the treatment of urban waste water. 94 per cent of urban waste water at areas >500 population equivalents (p.e.) now receive at least secondary (biological) treatment compared to less than 30 per cent in 2001. However, urban waste water still poses a threat to the quality of receiving waters in some areas.
A review of the Good Agricultural Practice Regulations was completed in 2014 with the updating of the regulations, under S.I. 31 of 2014. The regulations include increased setback distance for the application of chemical fertiliser to land in the vicinity of a watercourse (to 2 metres). In the case of organic feritilisers and soiled water, new site specific and risk-based approach to be used by Local Authorities in setting setback distances around drinking water abstraction points. The Nitrogen and Phosphorus allowances have also been adjusted in certain circumstances to match inputs more closely with crop requirements/outputs.
A limited amount of work on peatland restoration has been carried out during the reporting period, and an escalation of such work is planned.
Action 5: Knowledge of ecosystems and their services
The EPA funded a new project on natural capital as part of the 2014 Research Call. Funded through the Beaufort Marine Research Award and in partnership with Teagasc and the Marine Institute, the Socio-economic Marine Research Unit of NUIG is leading a project on the valuation of the benefits derived from marine ecosystem services, including non-market or recreational values associated with Irish lakes, rivers and seas and direct values of provisioning services such as fishing, aquaculture and shipping.Following a conference on entitled “Natural Capital: Ireland’s Hidden Wealth”, in May 2014, a Natural Capital Forum will be established with the support of public and private agencies to assist in prioritising action and coordination regarding the integration of natural capital in national accounting.
A national working group of public bodies was established in 2012 to progress the development of a national landcover and habitat map. The group includes representatives of Environmental Protection Agency, Heritage Council, Ordnance Survey of Ireland, National Parks and Wildlife Service, Department of Agriculture, Food and Marine and Teagasc. A proposal for the development of a national landcover mapping programme is being prepared by the Grouptaking into account the emerging National Spatial Data Strategy and national Landscape Strategy. The technical specifications for a national landcover mapping programme have been developed using County Roscommon as a case study. The Integrated Mapping for the Sustainable Development of Ireland’s Marine Resource (INFOMAR) programme is creating a range of integrated mapping products of the physical, chemical and biological features of the seabed in the near-shore area.
The EPA Ecorisk project examines the prospects for quantifying the economic value of ecosystem services for use within the Environmental Liability Directive (ELD), namely for compensatory remediation. However, other outputs include a review of ecological research that has been conducted in Ireland relevant to the assessment of ecosystem services, in combination with national and international reviews of economic valuations of ecosystems or environmental goods. This information will be developed into a database whereby policy makers and practitioners would be able to search for data and advice on the methods needed to assess various levels of environmental risk or damage, indicating also the types and sources of data required. The project will also propose, with examples, valuation methods that are appropriate for particular circumstances and make recommendations for the future application and refinement of methods within the context of the ELD and other policy needs.
Additionally, the EPA funded SIMBIOSYS Project completed in 2013 affirmed the positive relationship between species richness and ecosystem functioning, and identified scenarios where both ecosystem health and socioeconomic outputs could be maximised across three disparate system: bioenergy crops, landscaped road corridors and aquaculture. Ireland is also involved in European projects that have relevance to ecosystem service valuation, namely OPERAs (Operationalising Ecosystem Service Values) for which UCD is a partner. UCD is also a partner of TURAS (Transitioning Towards Urban Resilience and Sustainability). In addition, UCD, UL, UCC and Teagasc are contributing to EcoValue, a one year assessment of the ecosystem service value of Ireland's forests (biodiversity, water, carbon, recreation and health) for DAFM. The NESC have completed an exploratory study cataloguing environmental data within Ireland in 2014. The study produced a National Environmental Data Map identifying 265 data items and indicators organised by type, focus and source to identify the most policy-relevant data and data gaps for future natural capital and ecosystem service valuation exercises. The COFORD funded FORECON project, completed in 2011, provided an economic evaluation of the relative benefits of forest management practice with regards to recreation, biodiversity, landscape, water quality and carbon sequestration. The relative public benefits of public and private forestry were assessed, as well as the direct and indirect contribution of tradable goods and services of forestry to the national and regional economies. Completed in 2011, the DAFM funded project “An ecological economic analysis of agrobiodiversity in the Irish uplands”, investigated the provision of agrobiodiversity in the Irish uplands under the reformed Common Agricultural Policy. This study used detailed ecological and socio-economic on-farm surveys in order to: evaluate the impact of the REPS and CFP schemes on agrobiodiversity loss; investigate the economic behaviour and attitudes of farm households in relation to agrobiodiversity; and make recommendations to enhance the efficacy of REPS and CFP in supporting the provision of agrobiodiversity on farms in the uplands. A report commissioned by Woodlands of Irelands in March 2014 entitled “The Natural Capital Values of Ireland’s Native Woodland”, outlines a methodology for estimating the economic value of native woodlands in terms of a public amenity, tourism, public health, biodiversity utility, water quality, flood and erosion control, carbon storage and sequestration, and timber and wood fuel. The current estimate for existing native woodlands (0.17% land area) is €100-143 million p.a. The Environment Protection Agency issued a call in June 2014 for proposals for research, including under the theme of Natural Capital.See entry under 1.12 above.
The status assessment report to the EU under Article 17of the Habitats Directive, and the species trends report under Article 12 of the Birds Directive provide an overview of the leading pressures impacting the selected habitats and species and also lists any conservation measures undertaken. These data are currently being analysed. There is ongoing research into the impacts of water abstraction and pollution on dune slacks & petrifying springs (NPWS funded PhDs). The EPA BOGLAND project, completed in 2011, demonstrated the compelling evidence of the importance of Ireland’s peatland resource in terms of: being an extensive carbon store, the negative potential for habitat degradation to augment the greenhouse effect, their positive role sequester carbon, watershed management and their contribution to national biodiversity. The EPA funded SIMBIOSYS Project, completed in 2013 involved the field assessment of the effects of land-use on biodiversity three systems: bioenergy crops, landscaped road corridors and aquaculture; the ECO-Plan project integrating the ecosystems approach, green infrastructure and spatial planning in Ireland. The Co-ordination, Communication and Adaptation for Climate Change in Ireland (COCO-ADAPT) project, completed in 2013 and funded by the EPA, provided a framework to develop adaptation tools, strategies and option to cope with expected climate change. The project identified gaps in existing information and seeks to address these with focused projects, especially in key areas such as urban emissions, sea-level change and impacts on key economic sectors. Barriers to fish passage are major issue for dispersal of diadromous fish. IFI has established a database to compile national GIS-based inventory of structures/barriers to fish passage to enable assessment of risk and strategies to ameliorate barrier to dispersal. Red Lists for Mayflies and Bryophytes were published in 2012 bringing the total number of all-Ireland Red Lists to 8. Further publications are due in 2014, with the development of Red Lists for Elasmobranchs, sea-weeds, vascular plants and moths well underway.
DAFM through its publically funded forest research programme continues to support research across a range of areas of importance to forest biodiversity and climate change.
Action 6a: Ecosystem restoration and green infrastructure
Progress with this target requires detailed examination of recent land cover data; this data is currently being processed. Coastal systems are dynamic and stable with very minor losses reported. Peatlands continue to be eroded and extracted. Scrub and heath are likely to be expanding in the west due to abandonment. Woodland cover is increasing, however this is mainly conifer plantation which is at the expense of grassland and heath. The rate of loss of natural habitats is much less than the losses sustained 30-40 years ago following extensive periods of drainage and agricultural intensification.
Significant efforts have been made to reduce degradation by addressing, inter alia, inappropriate grazing regimes in upland habitats, reduction of pollutants, removal of invasives.
Government has recently approved a draft National Landscape strategy 2014-2024. The Strategy will establish principles for protecting and enhancing the landscape while positively managing its change. It will provide a high-level policy framework to achieve balance between the management, planning and protection of the landscape and ensure fragmentation is reduced.
Ireland has completed the 1st cycle of River Basin Management Planning under the EU Water Framework Directive (WFD) and is planning the 2nd cycle based on the experiences derived from the 1st cycle. Ireland has taken substantial steps to protect peatlands, especially raised bogs, since 2010.
Detailed site-specific conservation objectives have been published for 57 SACs and 27 SPAs, mainly coastal and marine sites and a further 36 are scheduled for completion by the end of 2014.A draft National Peatlands Strategy, Raised Bog SAC Management Plan and Review of the Raised Bog NHAs were published in early 2014. Part of the approach is that Site-specific management plans will be put in place for all Raised Bog SACs and the intention is that this will be the case for Raised Bog NHAs in the future.
Action 6b: Ecosystem restoration and green infrastructure
The procedures adopted by the NRA in the planning of the national road schemes are designed to avoid or minimise impacts on protected areas. These procedures are enshrined in current best practice documents.
The coherence, connectivity and resilience of the protected areas network are considerations in the selection procedures for Natura 2000 sites and for NHAs. Some raised and blanket bog NHAs have been designated by NPWS on the basis of their support function to nearby sites and to for their contribution towards a coherent national network of protected areas.
In 2012 the DECLG developed a medium to long-term framework for advancing sustainable development and the green economy in Ireland entitled "Our Sustainable Future". The framework aims to integrate sustainable development into key areas of policy, to put in place effective implementation mechanisms and to progress sustainable development. With regards to connectivity and resilience of protected areas network, the framework prioritises action on the development of an integrated approach to green infrastructure into sectoral polices and the creation of green corridors to enhance biodiversity.
Following Government approval, DAHG published a draft National Landscape Strategy for Ireland for public consultation in 2014. The strategy outlines a suite of national initiatives to recognise the importance of all landscapes in Ireland, implement the European Landscape Convention, promote sustainable development, and enhance and protect the environment. Following the consultation, the Strategy has been amended in preparation for submission to Government. The Waterways Ireland Corporate Plan 2011-2013 includes the aim of promoting and developing the waterways as educational and environmental assets, highlighting their natural heritage. As part of the programme to develop and restore the waterways network, key actions include the development of policies and programmes to deliver compliance with environmental legislative Directives, and evaluate natural heritage assets along the waterways.
Action 7a: No net loss
The Irish Prioritised Action Framework (November 2014) recommends "that monitoring measures are built into all funding allocations, schemes, projects etc. so that progress and value for money can be adequately assessed". This should facilitate a strategic evaluation of measures delivered through Operating Programmes in the future. However, the extent to which this scientific underpinning has been provided in the relevant programmes remains unclear. In addition, it was recommended that "the PAF priority measures should be explicitly referenced" in the design of Operating Programmes that will run until 2020. While programmes may have been informed by the PAF priorities, specific priorties do not appear to have been overtly referenced.
All public authorities that authorise or give consent to programmes, plans or projects, pursuant to Regulations 27 and 42 of the European Communities (Birds and Natural Habitats) Regulations, must uphold the provisions of Article 6 of the Habitats Directive, and in so doing, to undertake screening for appropriate assessment, and appropriate assessment as may be required to ensure that there is no negative impact arising in Natura 2000 sites. Strategic Environmental Assessments are also to be undertaken, and Environmental Impact Assessment/AA may be required for activities in the wider countrysid or at the project level.
EU target 3
Increase the contribution of agriculture and forestry to maintaining and enhancing biodiversity
Target 3a: Agriculture
The new Rural Development Programme up to 2020 includes a substantial commitment for a new agrienvironment scheme (building up approx. 50,000 participant farmers). It is envisaged that the programme will be agreed by the end of 2014, with implementation of measures commencing in 2015. A number of biodiversity actions are being considered for inclusion within the new agri-environment scheme, including specific actions for vulnerable habitats and threatened species, as well as some general actions which would have wider biodiversity benefits. A number of biodiversity related output-based schemes have also being proposed.
A review of the Good Agricultural Practice Regulations was completed in 2014 with the updating of the regulations, under S.I. 31 of 2014. The regulations include increased setback distance for the application of chemical fertiliser in land in the vicinity of a watercourse (to 2 metres). In the case of organic fertilisers and soiled water, new site specific and risk-based approach to be used by Local Authorities in setting seback distances around drinking water abstraction points. The Nitrogen and Phophorus allowances have also been adjusted in certain circumstances to match inputs more closely with crop requirements/outputs.
Action 8a: Environmental public goods in the CAP and GAEC cross-compliance
Ireland secured €2.2bn in EU funding for the new rural development programme up to 2020 and DAFM has committed substantial national funding, giving an overall total of over €4bn, thus demonstrating a strong commitment for both rural development and the environment as it includes a substantial commitment for a new agri-environment scheme, GLAS (building up to approx. 50,000 participant farmers over the period of the programme). The scheme is opened to applicants in 2015 and implementation of measures will commence in the latter part of 2015. A number of biodiversity actions are included within the new agri-environment scheme, including priority actions targeted at vulnerable habitats and threatened species, as well as some general actions which will have wider biodiversity benefits. The new Scheme will also have a water quality and climate action focus which will have added benefits for ecosystem services. A number of biodiversity related output-based measures will also be incorporated into the RDP over the period of the programme. The CAP reform process which falls within the responsibility of DAFM, has been finalised, with input/ advice/training provided by NPWS, as requested. The NPWS farm plan scheme has assisted in trialling prescriptions that can now be mainstreamed in DAFM schemes and EU financed operating programmes. NPWS would like to see this role formalised through a Memorandum of Understanding for Natura lands in particular.
The LEADER elements of the Rural Development Programme (RDP) will be programmed by DECLG under Priority 6: Promoting social inclusion, poverty reduction and economic development in rural areas however there are also 3 cross cutting objectives of innovation, environment and climate change which can also be integrated into these locally funded projects where relevant.
DAFM was actively engaged in identifying priorities, through the PAF and Habitats and Birds Directive reporting, to be addressed in the new agri-environmental schemes. An increased number of targeted actions have been included within the new agri-environment scheme. In association with DAHG, a number of targeted actions for priority habitats and species have been included as mandatory actions, where applicable to the farm (based on spatial data). Costings for prescriptions were calculated in accordance with EU guidelines.
Action 8b: Environmental public goods in the CAP and GAEC cross-compliance
Key actions within Ireland’s Actions for Biodiversity 2011-2016:
- Ensure effective implementation of cross-compliance, statutory management requirements and forest service guidelines/requirements to ensure conservation of biodiversity.
Action 10: Agricultural genetic diversity
Key actions within Ireland’s Actions for Biodiversity 2011-2016:
- All public bodies will endeavour to use native species, landraces and breeds and the public will be encouraged to do so.
The National Biodiversity Data Centre established a National Crop Wild Relative (CWR) database in 2010 to support in-situ conservation through the identification of threatened CWR hotspots. The database continues to be updated. Ex-situ collections of plant genetic resources are held by the DAFM with additional supplementary collections held by Trinity College Dublin and the Irish Seed Savers Association. Additionally, the grant aid scheme for the Conservation of Genetic Resources Grant Aid Scheme for Food and Agriculture (DAFM) continues to fund projects to identify, inventory, and conserve threatened plant genetic resources in Ireland.
Developed by the European Federation of Animal Science (EAAP) from 2007-2010, the European Farm Animal Biodiversity Information System (EFABIS) project merged two pre-existing databases on the status of animal breeds in Europe into a unified Open Source farm animal biodiversity information system (FABISnet). DAFM manages the national version of the EFABIS database as a communication and information tool that provides stakeholders a searchable database of breed related information, management tools and reference library. Censuses are primarily conducted by the relevant breed societies, but the Kerry, Irish Maol and Dexter cattle, Irish Draught horse, Connemara pony, Kerry Bog Pony and Galway sheep are designated as endangered, therefore DAFM directly implement management schemes for these breeds. Since 2011, 42 of 170 breeds present in Ireland have had their population data updated. Of the 72 breeds that have national-level risk assessment using FAO criteria, 1 is extinct, 16 are considered critical, 26 are endangered and 29 are not at risk.
Key actions within Ireland’s Actions for Biodiversity 2011-2016:
- Continue to update, identify and create inventories of important genetic resources for food and agriculture, both in situ and ex situ as appropriate, in particular those genetic resources whose survival is threatened and which may not have been identified or quantified to date.
- Strengthen measures to ensure conservation, and availability for use, of genetic diversity of crop varieties, livestock breeds and races, and of commercial tree species and promote in particular their in situ conservation.
The National Biodiversity Data Centre established a National Crop Wild Relative (CWR) database in 2010 to support in-situ conservation through the identification of threatened CWR hotspots. The database continues to be updated. Ex-situ collections of plant genetic resources are held by the DAFM with additional supplementary collections held by Trinity College Dublin and the Irish Seed Savers Association. Additionally, the grant aid scheme for the Conservation of Genetic Resources Grant Aid Scheme for Food and Agriculture (DAFM) continues to fund projects to identify, inventory, and conserve threatened plant genetic resources in Ireland.
Developed by the European Federation of Animal Science (EAAP) from 2007-2010, the European Farm Animal Biodiversity Information System (EFABIS) project merged two pre-existing databases on the status of animal breeds in Europe into a unified Open Source farm animal biodiversity information system (FABISnet). DAFM manages the national version of the EFABIS database as a communication and information tool that provides stakeholders a searchable database of breed related information, management tools and reference library. Censuses are primarily conducted by the relevant breed societies, but the Kerry, Irish Maol and Dexter cattle, Irish Draught horse, Connemara pony, Kerry Bog Pony and Galway sheep are designated as endangered, therefore DAFM directly implement management schemes for these breeds. Since 2011, 42 of 170 breeds present in Ireland have had their population data updated. Of the 72 breeds that have national-level risk assessment using FAO criteria, 1 is extinct, 16 are considered critical, 26 are endangered and 29 are not at risk.
Key actions within Ireland’s Actions for Biodiversity 2011-2016:
- Continue to update, identify and create inventories of important genetic resources for food and agriculture, both in situ and ex situ as appropriate, in particular those genetic resources whose survival is threatened and which may not have been identified or quantified to date.
- Strengthen measures to ensure conservation, and availability for use, of genetic diversity of crop varieties, livestock breeds and races, and of commercial tree species and promote in particular their in situ conservation.
The grant aid scheme for the Conservation of Genetic Resources Grant Aid Scheme for Food and Agriculture (DAFM) fund projects to identify, inventory, and conserve threatened genetic resources in Ireland. A National Genetic Conservation Strategy Document for animal genetic resources was published in 2013 by DAFM. Ireland lists seven populations of livestock as endangered. These include three populations of cattle, three populations of equines and one population of sheep. The 2013 strategy provides recommendations to ensure the conservation and use of animal genetic resources in Ireland.
Action 11a: Forest holders and biodiversity
The Forest Service currently drafting Catchment Forest Management Plans for the priority 8 Freshwater Pearl Mussel Catchments. Based on the Forest Service AAP and a forestry operations options matrix, the plan will ensure that all forestry operations regulated by the Forest Service in these catchments is compatible with the protection and conservation of FPM and its habitat.
The Forest Service Native Woodland Scheme (NWS), developed and implemented in partnership with NPWS, Woodlands of Ireland, Inland Fisheries Ireland and others, is aimed at protecting and expanding Ireland's native woodland resource. Two separate elements under the scheme provide funding to landowners for: (i) the appropriate restoration management of existing native woodlands (including conversion of non-native forest to native woodland) (NWS Conservation) and (ii) the creation of new native woodland on 'greenfield' sites (NWS Establishment). The NW Conservation has been suspended over the recent years. However, the reopening of this element is proposed under the new forestry programme 2014-2020, and a clear role for it is envisaged under the Freshwater Pearl Mussel-focused KerryLIFE project and the Top 8 FPM Catchment Forest Management Plans, specifically to fund the conversion of conifer forests into native woodlands at key points along FPM watercourses. NWS Establishment has remained opened and has undergone two major reviews in (Aug11 and Feb13), to increase its attractiveness and uptake. With support from NPWS, Woodlands of Ireland, Inland Fisheries and others, the Forest Service reached agreement with Ireland's EPA to amend the existing protocol regarding afforestation in acid sensitive areas, to facilitate the creation of new native woodlands in these areas, for (inter alia) water protection. A 2-day NWS training Course, aimed at foresters, landowners and personnel from relevant statutory bodies, was held in December 2014 in Co. Wicklow, and was attended by over 50 participants. The revised NWS proposed under the Forestry Programme 2014-2020 will be based on ecologically-driven criteria regarding the identification of priority sites in terms of native woodland ecosystems, wider habitat linkage, and relevant eco-system service delivery (e.g. water quality). Compatible wood production using close-to-nature silviculture will remain a key element, where appropriate. Various new measures will also be developed, including a component for emergent native woodland ('scrub').
The following initiatives will involve the promotion of alternative and traditional silvicultural management practices aimed at the delivery of (inter alia) biodiversity benefits, including those relating to aquatic habitats and species: Freshwater Pearl Mussel-focused KerryLIFE project; the Top 8 FPM Catchment Forest Management Plans; and the proposed Native Woodland Scheme and agro-forestry measure under the incoming forestry programme. Each of these will involve the provision by the Forest Service and others (e.g. Woodlands of Ireland) of guidance (publications, training) to forest owners and foresters, regarding management practices and decisions.
Action 11b: Forest holders and biodiversity
Key actions within Ireland’s Actions for Biodiversity 2011-2016
- Develop and use the means to integrate the economic value of biodiversity and ecosystems into national accounts, national and local development strategies and planning processes.
The Forest Service policy is to ensure that, at a national level, 30% of afforestation comprises broadleaf species. This is pursued through various measures, including: (i) the heightened level of grant and premiums available for broadleaf planting under the afforestation grant and premium schemes; (ii) the requirement to include 10% broadleaves (where site quality allows) within all new individual afforestation projects, and (iii) the Native Woodland Establishment Scheme, focused on creating new native woodlands primarily comprising native broadleaf species. It is proposed to maintain this 30% broadleaf target in the new forestry programme.
Action 12: Biodiversity in forest management plans
Woodland cover is increasing, however this is mainly conifer plantation which is at the expense of grassland and heath. The rate of loss of natural habitats is much less than the losses sustained 30-40 years ago following extensive periods of drainage and agricultural intensification.
Aquaculture and forestry licence procedures incorporate a comprehensive environmental analysis in all applications.
Key actions within Ireland’s Actions for Biodiversity 2011-2016:
- Consider and develop guidance on alternative forestry management options which aim to deliver additional biodiversity benefits.
Key actions within Ireland’s Actions for Biodiversity 2011-2016
- Introduce revised forest legislation which will support the conservation, protection and sustainable management of forest biological diversity.
EU target 4
Ensure the sustainable use of fisheries resources and ensuring good environmental status of the marine environment
Action 13a: Fish stock management
Common Fisheries Policy stocks are managed within a Minimum Sustainable Yield (MSY) framework in accordance with CFP and MSFD targets. Harvest control rules are in place to bring stocks to MSY in 2015 where possible. There has been a strong reduction in fishing pressure of fish stocks in Irish waters in the last decade. The Marine Institute Stock Book 2013 indicated that of the marine fish stocks in Irish waters which are fully assessed, 59% are now fished at or below MSY, while 60% of stocks are within safe biomass limits.
Common Fisheries Policy Spatial fisheries management measures are in place in the Irish EEZ to protect vulnerable marine habitats in offshore NATURA 2000 sites (e.g. corals); spawning aggregations, juvenile fish and depleted stocks. The management measures range from the prohibition of fishing with bottom impacting fishing gear to temporal closures of fishing for different species and/or with different gears. No take zones for benthic impacting fishing gears are currently being considered in inshore Natura 2000 sites (managed nationally) to protect sensitive habitats and associated biodiversity. The new CFP reform contains a commitment to continue and further strengthen conservation measures in biologically sensitive areas with spawning grounds and high populations of juvenile fish including off the South and West coast of Ireland.
The Sea-Fisheries Protection Authority (SFPA) is mandated under EU and National Law to take action against Illegal, unreported and unregulated (IUU) fishing activities. The Sea-Fisheries and Maritime Jurisdiction Act 2006 places primary responsibility for the regulation of sea-fisheries conservation law with the SFPA. In order to carry out this remit, the SFPA produces an annual National Fisheries Control Plan. This plan is used for the management of monitoring, surveillance and control of sea-fisheries at sea by the Naval Service, through aerial surveillance by the Air Corps and at landing ports in Ireland by SFPA staff. This plan outlines the benchmark requirements for inspections both at sea by the Naval Service and ashore by the SFPA. The annual plan uses agreed risk management strategies to develop these benchmarks which produce baseline inspection benchmarks for all vessels operating in the Irish EEZ
Action 13b: Fish stock management
All CFP stocks are managed within MSY framework in accordance with CFP and MSFD 2015 and 2020 targets. For stocks fished in Irish EEZ, there are a number of long term management plans and recovery plans such as for West of Scotland Cod, Irish Sea Cod and Northern Hake, NEA mackerel, NEA Blue whiting, Herring VIaN, North Sea and west of Scotland Saithe and HerringVIIaSVIIgj. Management plans are currently prepared or in the evaluation phase for other stock without formal agreement yet: e.g. west of Scotland Haddock, Rockall Haddock, Celtic Sea Cod, Herring VIaS, VIIbc, western Horse Mackerel, NEA Boarfish. Ireland has played a key role in initiating and developing some of these plans. In addition, Ireland is involved in Scientific support and coordination of the NWWRAC development of a mixed-fisheries management plan for the Celtic Sea (VIIf, g) and the NWWRAC initiative for a skates and rays management plan. The new CFP demands that in order to reach the objective of progressively restoring and maintaining populations of fish stocks above biomass levels capable of producing maximum sustainable yield (MSY), the maximum sustainable yield exploitation rate shall be achieved by 2015 where possible and, on a progressive, incremental basis at the latest by 2020 for all stocks. The new CFP provides for the development of multi-annual plans that shall contain conservation measures to restore and maintain fish stocks above MSY level. These plans may cover single species or multi-species for mixed fisheries. The CFP also promotes the development of fish stock recovery areas in areas of biological sensitivity, including areas where there are heavy concentrations of juvenile fish.
The new Common Fisheries Policy provides for measures to be put in place to adjust the fishing capacity of the fleets to levels of fishing opportunities consistent with MSY targets with a view to having economically viable fleets without overexploiting marine biological resources. Ireland will be reporting on the balance on an annual basis. If those reports show an imbalance, an action plan for adjustments must be put in place. Capacity adjustment is an integral part of the reformed CFP (article 22) and MS need to balance capacity and fishing opportunities. There has been an overall decrease in the in Gross tonnage and kW of the Irish fleet which is mainly attributed to the decommissioning of larger vessels. A reduction in fishing effort occurred in the demersal fleet due to effort management schemes associated with e.g. management plans of cod. Fishing capacity (GTs, KWs or licences) is ring-fenced for certain non-TAC species of shellfish (scallop, cockles, oysters) in order to balance fishing opportunity, socio-economic value and available stocks and also to avoid escalation of activity in Natura 2000 sites.
Action 14a: Adverse impacts on fish stocks, species, habitats and ecosystems
Effects of marine fisheries on the marine ecosystem are being evaluated in relation to fisheries impact on Vulnerable Marine Ecosystems, bycatch (e.g. cetaceans and seabirds) and fish biodiversity. Risk assessments and mitigation plans for fisheries in and close to Natura 2000 sites are ongoing.
Completed assessments for Natura 2000 sites and mitigation plans are published online at www.fishingnet.ie? Risk assessment of sea-fisheries interactions with protected habitats and species for the rest of the Irish coast (within 12 nautical miles) is close to completion. Mitigation strategies are being developed and will undergo consultation prior to conclusion and implementation. A number of Natura 2000 sites are closed on a precautionary basis to certain fishing practices.
Data link:
Action 14b: Adverse impacts on fish stocks, species, habitats and ecosystems
The first step in the implementation of the Marine Strategy Framework Directive (MSFD), an Initial Assessment of Ireland’s marine waters, was completed in 2013. A national report which provides narrative information on the status of Irish marine waters was subsequently prepared and published in November 2013 along with Ireland’s Marine Atlas. The second step in the implementation of the MSFD, the development of a Marine Monitoring Programme in accordance with Article 11, was completed in April 2015 following a public consultation process. This has been submitted to the Commission on EIONET.
EU target 5
Combat Invasive Alien Species
Invasive Species Risk Assessments have been undertaken for 41 high risk species.
The EU LIFE+ Project CAISIE (Control of Aquatic Invasive Species and Restoration of Natural Communities in Ireland) concluded in January 2013. The broad objective of the project was to contribute to the halting of biodiversity loss in Ireland by preventing further impacts on native biodiversity from high impact aquatic invasive species.
Initiated through Invasive Species Ireland, there is good national coordination of information flows on Invasive Species in Ireland as a prerequisite for delivery of a Rapid Response system. Agreement has been reached by the key national bodies on sharing of information on newly recorded species, a process coordinated by the National Biodiversity Data Centre. A team of national experts has been identified who provide verification of records of newly arrived sightings of invasive species, and following verification of reported sightings, species alerts are issued by the National Biodiversity Data Centre.
Invasive Species Ireland produced biosecurity guidance in the form of Codes of Practice for key activities that are known to facilitate the introduction of invasive species to Ireland and Northern Ireland. Codes of Practice were developed specifically for Aquaculture, Marina Operators, Water Users and Horticulture. Invasive Species Risk Assessments were carried out for 41 species subject to trade to enable the full implementation of Regs. 50 and 79 of the European Communities (Birds and Natural Habitats) Regulations 2011. Some state bodies have very proactive biosecurity protocols to mitigate the threat posed by invasive species, in particular Inland Fisheries Ireland and National Roads Authority. The National Biodiversity Data Centre published a report on the “Invasive and Non-native Species in Ireland - Trends in Introductions”, which was the first review of the arrival dates of non-native species in Ireland. Part of this work involved a horizon scanning exercise to identify potential new invaders to Ireland to assist policy formulation and introduction of mitigation measures. In 2013 IFI hosted an international conference on Freshwater Invasives – Networking for Strategy (FINS). Resulting from this meeting and workshop sessions a paper entitled ‘Tackling Invasive Alien Species in Europe: the Top 20 Issues’ was published in the journal Management of Biological Invasions. The EU LIFE+ Project CAISIE (Control of Aquatic Invasive Species and Restoration of Natural Communities in Ireland) concluded in January 2013. The broad objective of the project was to contribute to the halting of biodiversity loss in Ireland by preventing further impacts on native biodiversity from high impact aquatic invasive species.
Progress was made with the control and eradication of some recently arrived invasive species. Inland Fisheries Ireland has an active work programme and devotes resources to the control, eradication and containment of aquatic and riparian invasive species. Ongoing work has been undertaken to eradicate Chub (Leuscisus cephalus) and Water primrose (Ludwigia grandifolia) from Irish waters. The CAISIE project has resulted in Lagarosiphon being brought back to manageable levels in Lough Corrib, and in the process, new and novel control techniques have been developed. Inland Fisheries Ireland continues to research methods for the control of Asian clam (Corbicula fluminea), which has spread from River Barrow to the River Shannon. The National Botanic Gardens has been running an intensive eradication program along with Conservation Volunteers and the Heritage Council of the Hottentot Fig (Carpobrotus edulis) on Howth Head. This project has met with remarkable success. Other state bodies and local authorities have recognised the threat posed by invasive species and have on-going projects. NPWS continues to clear Rhododendron ponticum in National Parks. Substantial progress has been made.
Initiated through Invasive Species Ireland, there is good national coordination of information flows on Invasive Species in Ireland as a prerequisite for delivery of a Rapid Response system. Agreement was reached by the key national bodies on sharing of information on newly recorded species, a process coordinated by the National Biodiversity Data Centre. A team of national experts has been identified who provide verification of records of newly arrived sightings of invasive species, and following verification of reported sightings, species alerts are issued by the National Biodiversity Data Centre. Since 2011, alerts for three species, Japanese Kelp, Squirrel Pox Virus and Raccoon, have been issued by the National Biodiversity Data Centre. For the freshwater environment, Inland Fisheries Ireland has a very proactive response to invasive species and has provided basic training for its staff in respect of aquatic and riparian invasive species identification and how to report new sightings in an accurate and timely manner. A dedicated Invasive Species Group, comprising personnel from each of the River Basin Districts, was established by IFI. Member of the group will be trained in rapid reaction and related methods. IFI has produced a dedicated invasive species App for use on smart ‘phones and that this is being widely used by IFI staff and others to record and document records of invasive species.
Invasive Species Ireland launched a 'Be Plant Wise' awareness campaign to highlight the threat posed by plants to the aquatic environment. It involved promotion of a campaign video, guidance for retailers, gardeners and pond owners, and an information leaflet. The information focussed on alerting to the potential threat posed by five aquatic plants, New Zealand Pygmy Weed, Floating Pennywort, Curly Waterweed, Water Fern and Parrot's Feather. The National Biodiversity Data Centre initiated a project to raise awareness amongst the horticulture section of the threat posed by invasive species. It launched a 'Spot the Alien' awareness campaign and recording initiative focussed on three species for which horticulture is the major pathway, namely: red lily beetle, New Zealand flatworm and Harlequin ladybird. The work on Invasive Species Risk Assessments described under Action 8.01 includes a public consultation exercise about implementation of Regs 50 and 74 of the regulations and engagement with the horticultural and other sectors highlighting the potential threat posed by invasive species, in particular, aquatic plants. B and Q, the DIY company, produced a company policy covering Ireland as well as the UK, on invasive species. An iphone ‘Invasives Ireland’ app was developed by Longford County Council with Heritage Council funding and with support by the National Biodiversity Data Centre is now available for download from i-Tunes. The android version will be released shortly. Records submitted via the app will be processed by the Data Centre and added to the National Invasive Species Database. Once the android app is published a media launch of the app is planned. IFI has produced a large number of information, educational and advocacy materials that include identification sheets for 10 aquatic and riparian species, key ring identification units, USB keys, best practice for control guides for 6 species, biosecurity protocols for specific stakeholder groups (e.g. anglers, boaters, divers, paddle sports), among others. IFI released an Invasive Species App in 2012 to aid identification of invasive species and facilitate the submission of georeferenced photographs to the IFI server.
The Roads Division of DTTAS places the use of native planting in landscaping national road schemes as an integral part of the NRAs landscaping policy documentation which incorporates the requirements of the National Biodiversity Action Plan.Guidance on landscaping with native species was collated and published by Woodlands of Ireland and the Heritage Council on the ecolandscapes.ie website, funded by DAHG and DAFM.
EU target 6
Help avert global biodiversity loss
Legislation relating to the conservation of biodiversity is now incorporated into the 2010 Planning & Development Act.
Action 17c: Drivers of biodiversity loss
Positive incentive measures are currently being considered under the on-going development of the new rural development programme (RDP). Parallel strategic environmental assessments and appropriate assessment on the forthcoming programme will ensure there are no adverse effects on biodiversity from the measures when implemented.
Results based payments are being facilitated through the Burren Farming for Conservation Programme, the AranLIFE project and the Natterjack Toad Scheme for habitat protection, creation and improvement. Further output-based measures are also being considered as part of the new RDP
“Our Sustainable Future” famework was published in 2012. The framework identifies a number of national policies and programmes relating to areas such as: sustainable consumption and production, and conservation and management of natural resources.
Action 18a & 18b: Resources for global biodiversity conservation
Biological diversity is a key part of sustainable food production which is a priority issue when addressing hunger in many developing countries. In May 2013 Ireland launched a new policy for International Development "One World One Future" which places importance on Biodiversity as part of the priority area for action on Climate Change and Development. The policy commits Ireland to support developing countries to conserve and sustainably use their biodiversity and to secure local ecosystems. In 2013 Irish Aid allocated grants totalling €27,626,000 in respect of activities that were biodiversity relevant or had biodiversity elements. Of this funding approx. €13,000,000 was substantively biodiversity relevant. In addition, grants totalling €300,000 where allocated for biodiversity specific projects. Activities include developing sustainable seed systems, agroforestry using indigenous trees, promoting the growing local woodlots, watershed management and protection of natural resources, protection of habitats, support for sustainable food and energy systems particularly for indigenous and pastoralist groups, community involvement in protecting forests and ecotourism.
Action 20: Access to genetic resources and sharing of benefits
Ireland has signed the Protocol and the development of administrative arrangements for its operation has begun.
Nagoya Protocol and EU Regulations giving effect to it have been adopted by the EU Commission. DAHG is represented on a Committee established by the commission to assist in the implementation of the Regulations. A decision on ratification has not yet been made in Ireland.