Oireachtas

Farmers should be paid for EU land conservation - PDs

THE Progressive Democrats spokeswoman on the environment, Ms Mairin Quill, called for consultation and compromise on land conservation…

Thu Nov 28 1996 - 00:00

THE Progressive Democrats spokeswoman on the environment, Ms Mairin Quill, called for consultation and compromise on land conservation projects.

There should also be compensation for farmers affected by the creation of special areas of conservation to comply with EU directives, she said.

She was speaking during Private Members' Time on a Fianna Fail motion which deplored "the lack of consultation" by the Minister for Arts, Culture and the Gaeltacht, on proposed regulations to preserve the State's flora and fauna.

Ms Quill said the need to preserve nature was now widely recognised. Up to a quarter of all existing species were threatened with extinction within 30 years.

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"The obligation to act as custodians of our environment falls equally on every citizen, but every citizen needs to be educated to a sense of responsibility", Ms Quill said.

The main custodians of our natural habitats were the farmers. The Government must enter into dialogue with farmers and this could lead to a concordant where farmers and governments would work in close co operation.

Land owners must be given an assurance that if any decision affected their livelihood they would have recourse to an independent, appeal system.

Where special areas of conservation were declared there must be adequate compensation worked out in advance with the farmers.

The Minister of State for western development, Mr Donal Carey, said the compensation question would not be a simple one but the Government was determined that the outcome would reflect "an equitable and satisfactory" resolution.

Where scientific objections were raised to special areas of conservation, farming interests would be given a voice in examining these objections.

"We will listen carefully to any concerns voiced when the regulations come into effect and seek to respond to them in the best possible manner."

Flexibility would also be the key, to how the National Parks and Wildlife Service would address any issues raised.

A Government amendment acknowledging the "ongoing consultation with farming and conservation interests" by the Minister for Arts. Culture and the Gaeltacht, was passed by 65 votes to 55.