Latest news with #LocalGovernmentandHeritage
Irish Independent
8 hours ago
- Business
- Irish Independent
Site in Mayo town identified as suitable for large housing project
This was revealed at a meeting of the Joint Committee on Housing, Local Government and Heritage. The six-hector site is currently zoned for infrastructure and utility. A report estimates that the cost of development and infrastructure will be between €68,750,000 and €86,450,000. Dearbhla Lawson, the director of planning services for the Land Development Agency (LDA) outlined details about the site. Ms Lawson added that 'there may be other sites the local authority has [but], this [site] has been shortlisted out of a longer process. There's probably more infill sites [in Ballina] and I'm very happy to take that forward with the local authority'. Senator Mark Duffy welcomed the site identified by the LDA, calling it 'promising' and asked the agency to work with him on other sites across Mayo. He proposed the Ballina Mineral Water site located in the town centre. This area had previously been put through a compulsory purchase order by Mayo County Council for a new Tesco supermarket however, the proposal never came to fruition. 'In terms of acreage it's quite small, it's about 4-5 acres,' said the Fine Gael representative. 'While the site might not be the most attractive size, in terms of scale [it] can have a huge impact in being the catalyst for the regeneration of our town' he added. John Coleman the CEO of the LDA, made clear that the main focus for development had previously been in city areas, but he confirmed that 'we will be looking at opportunities in Mayo going forward'. Senator Duffy made the point that while he understood the thought process behind the focus on cities, he recognized there are 'financial impediments that make it more cost effective if we target towns over the 10,000 population that can help to unlock a lot of the housing challenges, because this is a crisis that faces every community'. The type of housing that would be built on the utility site in Ballina is unknown, however the lack of social housing and affordable homes is a Mayo-wide issue, an estimated target of 708 homes are needed under the current Mayo County Development Plan 2022-2028. ADVERTISEMENT Learn more Councillor Peter Flynn, the chair of Mayo County Council's Strategic Policy Committee on Housing, has said he welcomes 'any intervention that will accelerate the delivery of housing in Mayo, particularly for large scale affordable housing schemes'. Speaking to the Irish Independent, Cllr Flynn said, 'The delivery of large-scale affordable houses and apartments is critical to any solution and the demographic of the working poor is a group that needs to be the focus of any initiative particularly in an era of almost full employment,' "For too long Mayo County Council has failed to deliver in this area and their delivery in relation to Social Housing can be described at best as average. We have seen the extraordinary increase in working people who don't qualify for any Government or Council supports becoming homeless and the needs of these people must be urgently addressed,' "I would welcome the LDA getting involved in Mayo towns if they particularly focus on affordable housing in suitable locations' he added. The LDA report was prepared and submitted under Section 52 of the Land Development Agency Act 2021.
Irish Independent
12 hours ago
- Irish Independent
Investigation launched after white-tailed eagle poisoned in Kerry
The young female eagle was brought in as a chick from Norway in 2024 by the white-tailed eagle Reintroduction Programme, managed by NPWS, under the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage. Sadly the bird was found dead in Glencar in April of this year and toxicology reports show it was poisoned by a illegal substance. The NPWS have launched an investigation into the death of the eagle and have strongly criticised the incident. Minister of State for Nature, Heritage and Biodiversity, Christopher O'Sullivan TD also criticised the incident. The young female eagle released in Killarney National Park in 2024. Since 2020, all eagles released as part of this programme are monitored via satellite-tags. Concerns were raised in early April, as the eagle's satellite tag showed that she had remained stationary for several days. NPWS staff went to the location of the satellite tag and located the partially decomposed carcass of the eagle in a woodland. Toxicology tests have confirmed it had been poisoned with Carbofuran, an insecticide which has been banned in Ireland since 2007. It is not known how the eagle ingested this substance at this time. The NPWS said it 'deplores the deliberate killing of rare and endangered species, and takes bird of prey persecutions extremely seriously.' Deputy O'Sullivan said that the loss is 'regrettable' but will not stop efforts to introduce the bird of prey. 'Any loss in the wild not due to natural causes, is usually the result of human activity and this tragic loss is deeply regrettable.' ADVERTISEMENT 'We will continue with our efforts to introduce, nurture and protect these birds as part of The Reintroduction Programme which has been making significant progress in restoring this lost flagship species to Irish skies. The white-tailed eagle is part of Ireland's natural heritage and are important for our biodiversity, as they are a good indicator species regarding the health of our ecosystems.' Considerable efforts in recent years to reintroduce this iconic species, which was driven to extinction in the 19th and early 20th century by human persecution, have successfully contributed to the species re-establishment in Ireland. The white-tailed eagle Reintroduction Programme, which began in 2007, has so far released nearly 200 young eagles which have been supplied by the Norwegian Government. Currently, there are 13-16 breeding pairs, with 64 chicks fledged by the end of 2024. Sadly, however, a number of the eagles brought in as part of the programme have met untimely deaths. Recently, it was announced that a male eagle which held territory in Lough Derg for 17 years had been found dead, also suspected due to poisoning. The NPWS said the 'persecution by humans is the biggest threat to the reintroduction programme in Ireland." "The misuse/illegal use of poisons accounts for nearly 50% of eagle deaths where the cause of mortality was able to be determined, and at least one eagle has been shot. In terms of natural causes of death, a number of eagles have succumbed to avian flu, as well as other conditions,' they said. The NPWS have now launched an investigation and are appealing to the public for information. 'We appealing for any information the public may have in relation to the incident, or any other suspected poisoning or other unlawful killing of birds." Any information in respect of this or any suspected breaches of the Wildlife legislation should be reported to the NPWS head office or local offices or via email to wildlifeenforcement@ Wildlife crime incidents can also be reported to An Garda Síochána. The NPWS has also stressed that in the interests of public health and safety, the public should not handle dead birds.
Irish Independent
12 hours ago
- General
- Irish Independent
‘Deplorable' poisoning of White-Tailed Eagle in Kerry under investigation
The young female eagle was brought in as a chick from Norway in 2024 by the White-tailed Eagle Reintroduction Programme, managed by NPWS, under the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage. Sadly the bird was found dead in Glencar in April of this year and toxicology reports show it was poisoned by a illegal substance. The NPWS have launched an investigation into the death of the eagle and have strongly criticised the incident. Minister of State for Nature, Heritage and Biodiversity, Christopher O'Sullivan TD also criticised the incident. The young female eagle released in Killarney National Park in 2024. Since 2020, all eagles released as part of this programme are monitored via satellite-tags. Concerns were raised in early April, as the eagle's satellite tag showed that she had remained stationary for several days. NPWS staff went to the location of the satellite tag and located the partially decomposed carcass of the eagle in a woodland. Toxicology tests have confirmed it had been poisoned with Carbofuran, an insecticide which has been banned in Ireland since 2007. It is not known how the eagle ingested this substance at this time. The NPWS said it 'deplores the deliberate killing of rare and endangered species, and takes bird of prey persecutions extremely seriously.' Deputy O'Sullivan said that the loss is 'regrettable' but will not stop efforts to introduce the bird of prey. 'Any loss in the wild not due to natural causes, is usually the result of human activity and this tragic loss is deeply regrettable.' 'We will continue with our efforts to introduce, nurture and protect these birds as part of The Reintroduction Programme which has been making significant progress in restoring this lost flagship species to Irish skies. The White Tailed Eagle is part of Ireland's natural heritage and are important for our biodiversity, as they are a good indicator species regarding the health of our ecosystems.' Considerable efforts in recent years to reintroduce this iconic species, which was driven to extinction in the 19th and early 20th century by human persecution, have successfully contributed to the species re-establishment in Ireland. The White-tailed Eagle Reintroduction Programme, which began in 2007, has so far released nearly 200 young eagles which have been supplied by the Norwegian Government. Currently, there are 13-16 breeding pairs, with 64 chicks fledged by the end of 2024. Sadly, however, a number of the eagles brought in as part of the programme have met untimely deaths. Recently, it was announced that a male eagle which held territory in Lough Derg for 17 years had been found dead, also suspected due to poisoning. The NPWS said the 'persecution by humans is the biggest threat to the reintroduction programme in Ireland." "The misuse/illegal use of poisons accounts for nearly 50% of eagle deaths where the cause of mortality was able to be determined, and at least one eagle has been shot. In terms of natural causes of death, a number of eagles have succumbed to avian flu, as well as other conditions,' they said. The NPWS have now launched an investigation and are appealing to the public for information. 'We appealing for any information the public may have in relation to the incident, or any other suspected poisoning or other unlawful killing of birds." Any information in respect of this or any suspected breaches of the Wildlife legislation should be reported to the NPWS head office or local offices or via email to wildlifeenforcement@ Wildlife crime incidents can also be reported to An Garda Síochána. The NPWS has also stressed that in the interests of public health and safety, the public should not handle dead birds.
Irish Independent
6 days ago
- Business
- Irish Independent
Narrow Water Bridge set to begin ascent over Carlingford Lough
An Taoiseach Micheál Martin and James Browne TD, Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage, received a progress update during a visit to the construction site on Thursday, 12th June. The event featured a presentation from the project team and a guided site walk on the southern embankment, offering a close-up view of the major engineering works which are now well underway. The Narrow Water Bridge, a flagship Shared Island Project, is set to unlock new tourism and connectivity potential in the east border region and is expected to drive local economic development by boosting employment and visitor footfall. It will be a critical link in the cross-border active travel and recreation network, supporting greenways, mountain bike trails, walking routes and access to the region's stunning natural amenities. When complete, the 195-metre cable-stayed bridge will link County Louth and County Down at Narrow Water near Warrenpoint in County Down, providing a direct connection between the Mourne Mountains and the Cooley Peninsula. Designed to accommodate vehicular, cycle, and pedestrian traffic, it will connect the A2 Newry to Warrenpoint dual carriageway with the R173 Omeath. The bridge will also feature a movable bascule span to allow ships to pass through to the Newry Canal. The visit was also attended by Erin McGreehan TD, Cormac Devlin TD (Dún Laoghaire) and Chair of the Oireachtas Good Friday Agreement Committee, Senator Alison Comyn, as well as representatives from the main contractor BAM Civil Ltd and Roughan & O'Donovan, Louth County Council's employer representative. Taoiseach Micheál Martin said: 'I am delighted to return to the site of the Narrow Water Bridge, which is now under construction and a true embodiment of the Government's Shared Island Initiative. This bridge is a tangible symbol of our vision and commitment to deepening connections across this island. Once complete, the bridge will enhance connectivity, unlock new opportunities for tourism and active travel, and support long-term economic development across the Carlingford Lough region, strengthening the ties that are so important for our shared future.' James Browne TD, Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage, said: 'I was delighted to view the progress at the Narrow Water Bridge site. It reflects the enduring strength of all-island collaboration. This project stands as a landmark example of what can be achieved through shared vision and partnership. I wish to acknowledge the pivotal role of Louth County Council in driving this initiative forward with my Department, alongside our colleagues in Northern Ireland. Their dedication and leadership continue to be instrumental in delivering this transformative infrastructure for the region.' Cllr Kevin Callan, Cathaoirleach of Louth County Council, said: 'The Narrow Water Bridge is more than a piece of infrastructure; it is a symbol of connection, opportunity, and a shared vision for our future. We are proud to show the tangible progress being made and to reaffirm our commitment to delivering a project that will benefit generations to come. We are especially pleased to welcome the Taoiseach back on site and deeply appreciate the strong support he has personally shown in helping to bring this landmark initiative to fruition.' Thomas McEvoy, Deputy Chief Executive of Louth County Council, added: 'The Narrow Water Bridge project demonstrates what can be achieved through meaningful cross-border collaboration and long-term planning. Louth County Council is exceptionally proud to lead on the delivery of such a landmark project, and we are pleased with the progress to date and grateful for the continued support of our partners and stakeholders across both jurisdictions.' Alasdair Henderson, Executive Director of BAM Ireland, said: "The Narrow Water Bridge project represents a vital investment in Ireland's infrastructure, and BAM is proud to partner with Louth County Council to bring it to life. This transformative development will enhance connectivity, promote tourism, and encourage active travel, fostering lasting opportunities for local communities and the country. By driving long-term economic growth, the project ensures that this investment delivers meaningful and lasting benefits to society." The Taoiseach had been in the Carlingford Lough area for a briefing on the implementation of the Shared Island Shared Destinations projects. The Shared Destinations Project will see initiatives in Cuilcagh Lakelands UNESCO Global Geopark; Carlingford Lough; and Sliabh Beagh each receive funding for the development of cross-border trails, enhanced amenities and wayfinding and interpretation to improve the visitor experience and encourage more domestic and international visitors to explore these regions, driving economic benefits for the local communities.
RTÉ News
11-06-2025
- Politics
- RTÉ News
Plan for 63 Sligo social homes delayed over costs
The delivery of a planned 63-unit social housing scheme in Sligo has been put on hold after the Department of Housing decided not to proceed over concerns about the cost of the project. The planned scheme at Rathellen, Finisklin was one of six schemes nationwide, comprising 486 social housing units in total that was due to be delivered under a public private partnership. The 486 units were due to be delivered as part of 'Social Housing Bundle 3 PPP' across four local authority areas. Dublin City Council is the lead local authority for the social housing bundle which comprises six schemes in total, including three sites in the capital alongside further sites in Kildare, Wicklow and Sligo. In a letter to the local authorities, the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage said it decided not to proceed "due to the overall costs "which are now considered too high". All six sites within the social housing bundle have full planning permission. The Department said the units "will now be delivered by way of an alternative procurement and delivery strategy". The Department is due to begin a review with the National Development Finance Agency on the future Social Housing Public Private Partnership (PPP) bundles. The Department said it remains committed to delivering the 486 social housing units that PPP Bundle 3 was designed to provide in partnership with the NDFA and the relevant Local Authorities. Meanwhile, Sligo County Council has told public representatives that its Housing Capital Team is reviewing the options available for an alternative procurement and delivery strategy for the Rathellen site. Any planned strategy will require the agreement of the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage. 'Hugely disappointing' Cathaoirleach of Sligo County Council Cllr Declan Bree told RTÉ News he feels the situation is hugely disappointing. Cllr Bree said following the receipt of tenders there was an expectation that construction work on the housing scheme would commence shortly. He said there are more than 1,660 households on Sligo County Council's housing waiting list and the current housing crisis is causing "huge distress and anxiety". "In this context the decision not to proceed with the 63 social housing units in Finisklin can only be described as a serious setback. "Given the failure of the Minister and his Department to deliver this public private partnership deal we now need to see the Minister and the Government provide the necessary funding directly to the County Council so as we can deliver the scheme in a speedy and efficient manner," Cllr Bree said.
