Appropriate Assessment

Uisce Éireann determined that Appropriate Assessment, in respect of some of its projects, was required as it could not be excluded, on the basis of objective scientific information, that the projects, individually or in combination with other plans or projects, would have significant effects on European sites.

Under Regulation 42(6) and 42(9) of the European Communities (Birds and Natural Habitats) Regulations 2011, as amended, Uisce Éireann, as a Public Authority is required to conduct Appropriate Assessment in respect of certain projects it proposes to undertake and hence prepare a Natura Impact Statement (NIS). These NISs may be found by following the relevant links below. Following submission of these NISs to the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage, Uisce Éireann waited for a period of at least six weeks prior to concluding all Appropriate Assessments. Uisce Éireann notes that it is required to take account of any submissions made to it by the Minister. Uisce Éireann also carried out public consultations and published notices of the proposed projects on its website. In carrying out these Appropriate Assessments, Uisce Éireann took into account a number of matters, including the Natura Impact Statements. Uisce Éireann's Appropriate Assessments included determinations as to whether or not the relevant projects would adversely affect the integrity of European sites. These determinations are also available by following the relevant links below. All assessments were carried out before any decisions were taken to commence the projects. Uisce Éireann has undertaken these projects only after having determined that they shall not adversely affect the integrity of European sites.