National Parks Bill to strengthen protection of the unique landscapes of the Burren
Following Cabinet approval, Minister of State for Nature, Heritage and Biodiversity, Christopher O’Sullivan TD, has announced plans to develop Ireland’s first National Parks Bill, which will place the Burren National Park on a dedicated statutory footing and establish nature conservation and restoration as the primary purpose of its management.
The proposed National Parks Bill will support the long-term conservation of Burren National Park, home to one of the world’s most distinctive limestone landscapes and an extraordinary mix of Arctic-Alpine and Mediterranean plant species.
To date, National Parks have been cared for through a range of legislative and administrative arrangements. Today’s announcement on the development of a dedicated, comprehensive legislative framework will enable the State to go further by establishing management planning and governance frameworks, developing transparent designation processes, facilitating public access, recreation, education and research, and aligning Ireland with international best practice
The legislation will support nature restoration and conservation while providing stronger governance and management arrangements for the park.
Minister O’Sullivan said:
“The forthcoming National Parks Bill will represent one of the most significant developments in nature conservation legislation in the history of the State, and it couldn’t come at a more important time. We know that we need to lead nature restoration on public land, and our National Parks are central to achieving this. I want Ireland’s first National Parks Bill to make the goal for these amazing places crystal clear: to protect and restore nature”
He continued:
“The Burren is one of Ireland’s most remarkable natural landscapes. The proposed legislation will ensure that its unique biodiversity and geological heritage are protected through a modern statutory framework.”
William Cormacan, Divisional Manager, NPWS, said:
“The Burren’s ecological significance is recognised internationally. This legislation will help ensure that future generations can continue to enjoy and learn from this extraordinary landscape while supporting its conservation and restoration.”
Niall Ó Donnchú, Director General, NPWS, said:
“I warmly welcome the Government’s decision to draft a Bill to provide a modern statutory framework for the designation and stewardship of our National Parks.
As we look to the future, it is essential that our National Parks are supported by legislation that is fit for contemporary purpose: legislation that clarifies operations and management across the National Park system. It must also strengthen our authority and enforcement powers as we in NPWS work tirelessly to protect these extraordinary natural gems.” “We look forward to working closely with Minister Browne and Minister O’Sullivan in drafting this important legislation, ensuring that it provides a robust foundation to safeguard our National Parks for the generations to come.”