Skip over main navigation
  • Log in
  • Basket: (0 items)
An Taisce - The National Trust For Ireland
  • Search
  • Facebook
  • Twitter
  • Instagram
Membership Donate
  • Twitter
Menu
  • About Us
    • Our Mission
    • FAQs
    • Who We Are
      • Key Staff
      • Board
      • Council
      • Committees
    • Local Associations
    • Our History
  • Our Work
    • Advocacy
    • Education
    • Properties
    • Submissions
  • Legacy4Life
    • Legacy4Life Programme
    • Legacy4Life Blog
  • News and Events
    • Latest News and Press Releases
    • Blog
    • Events
  • Get Involved
    • Donate
    • Membership
      • Benefits of Membership
      • Become a Member
    • Legacies
    • Green Buildings
    • Other Ways to Give
    • Volunteer
    • Job Vacancies
  • Contact Us
  • Pages
  • Admin
    • Log in
  • Basket: (0 items)
  • advocacy-faqs
  1. About Us
  2. FAQs

FAQs

Find answers to your questions below.

Please note that our resources are very limited and we receive a large volume of queries. As such, we are unfortunately unable to respond to every query and ask that you review these frequently asked questions. 

Queries from members are prioritised. If you would like to become a member, please visit the membership page on our website. 

If your query relates to a planning matter, note that we are unable to make a submission on every application. If your questions are not answered by the FAQs below please send your query to [email protected].

What is An Taisce’s role in planning?

Expand

A cornerstone of the Advocacy Unit's work is our role as the only independent charity in Ireland with a statutory or “prescribed” role in the planning process. This means we are sent planning applications for proposed developments of all types and of all sizes that may impact the environment and/or built heritage. Our role is to review and comment on the applications as part of the decision making process. Essentially, we act as a watchdog. We also have a similar role regarding infrastructure developments (such as large electricity projects), forestry licensing, aquaculture licensing, pollution control licensing, and dumping at sea permits. 

The detailed submissions we make often result in changes to the proposals to better promote sustainable development and ecological protection. Our work can also result in particularly problematic proposals being refused. Learn more about these statutory roles here.

More broadly, the Advocacy Unit's focus in this oversight role is to advocate for the full implementation, enforcement and improvement of national and European environmental law and policy. We also advocate for the right to full public participation in all environmental decision and policy-making processes.

Published: 1st March, 2022

Updated: 22nd March, 2022

Author:

Share this page
  • Email
  • Facebook
  • Twitter

What policy areas does An Taisce work on?

Expand

We provide detailed submissions to policy consultations at all levels, from the local to the national, and on a wide range of issues, from County Development Plans to marine conservation to climate legislation. 

The top priorities in our policy work include: 

  • Addressing the climate change and biodiversity loss emergencies; 
  • Improving and protecting water quality and air quality;
  • Creating a sustainable food system;
  • Creating sustainable communities to support the wellbeing of both people and environment;
  • Shifting from dependence on private car use to more sustainable modes of transport such as public transport, cycling and walking;
  • Protecting our built and cultural heritage and advocating for the sustainable and sensitive use of heritage buildings.

Published: 2nd March, 2022

Updated: 22nd March, 2022

Author:

Share this page
  • Email
  • Facebook
  • Twitter

Can I view An Taisce’s planning and policy submissions?

Expand

All of our submissions on planning applications are publicly accessible through the planning authority websites. The relevant databases can be found on ePlans.

We are currently in the process of uploading all of our submissions on policy consultations here. 



Published: 3rd March, 2022

Updated: 22nd March, 2022

Author:

Share this page
  • Email
  • Facebook
  • Twitter

Where can I find information about planning applications in Ireland?

Expand

Information regarding a planning application can be found on the planning authority websites. The relevant databases can be found on ePlans. Planning applications are searchable by reference number, applicant name, development description, or development address.

An Bord Pleanala’s website, Ireland’s planning appeals board, provides information on planning appeals on local authority decisions, Strategic Infrastructure Development (SID) applications and Strategic Housing Development (SHD) applications (this system is now discontinued but previous SHD cases and cases awaiting a decision are still accessible). 

For a library of information on the planning system, visit the Office of the Planning Regulator’s website.

Published: 4th March, 2022

Updated: 22nd March, 2022

Author:

Share this page
  • Email
  • Facebook
  • Twitter

What can I do if I have a planning-related query?

Expand

We appreciate and value public concern for planning in Ireland. If you would like to bring an issue to our attention, such as that regarding a planning application or an unauthorised development, please email [email protected].

Due to resources and capacity, however, we are unfortunately unable to respond to every concern raised with us. 

Published: 5th March, 2022

Updated: 22nd March, 2022

Author:

Share this page
  • Email
  • Facebook
  • Twitter

There is development occurring in my area that I think may be unauthorised. What can I do?

Expand

If you believe that there is development occurring in your area without the necessary planning permission, you can submit an enforcement complaint to the local Council asking them to investigate. Each Council website should provide specific instructions on how to do so. In general, you will need to provide details of the location and development and/or activity in question. Providing photos, if possible, is often helpful as well. 

If you are unsure if the development is unauthorised, you can start by searching for it in the relevant planning authority database, which can be found on ePlans.

Published: 6th March, 2022

Updated: 22nd March, 2022

Author:

Share this page
  • Email
  • Facebook
  • Twitter

Why did An Taisce make a submission on one application and not another?

Expand

We receive, on average, over 500 planning application referrals per month. The number of applications we are able to respond to at any given time is largely dependent on our workload. We try to prioritise the submissions we make based on, among various criteria, the scale of the development in question and the likelihood and severity of potential environmental or heritage impacts. Due to our limited resources, we are unfortunately unable to respond to every planning application that we would like to.

Published: 7th March, 2022

Updated: 22nd March, 2022

Author:

Share this page
  • Email
  • Facebook
  • Twitter

What is An Taisce’s aim in making planning submissions?

Expand

The majority of our planning submissions are observations and would generally raise the need for further assessment of one or more aspects of the planning application as well as issues of ensuring compliance with local, national or EU policy. Our goal is to ensure that planning decisions are made in compliance with national and EU environmental law such as the Environmental Impact Assessment Directive, Habitats and Birds Directives, Water Framework Directive, national climate mitigation policy, etc. All of these have to be factored into planning decisions at local council and An Bord Pleanála levels.

Our overall focus in our planning work is ensuring: 

  • Environmental legal compliance in the planning process;
  • The protection of our built and cultural heritage; and
  • That planning in our rural areas, cities and towns is done as sustainably as possible for the wellbeing of both people and the environment.

Published: 8th March, 2022

Updated: 22nd March, 2022

Author:

Share this page
  • Email
  • Facebook
  • Twitter

What can I do about the destruction of hedgerows in my community?

Expand

Hedgerows are immensely important in Ireland for many reasons, including supporting wildlife, aiding in carbon sequestration and alleviating air pollution, as well as mitigating impacts from flooding and wind. To learn more, we recommend this document from The Heritage Council, Conserving Hedgerows.

Per the Wildlife Act 1976 (as Amended, 2000) hedge cutting is banned from 1 March to 31 August every year, unless exempted for reasons such as health and safety. Please report illegal hedge cutting to Gardai and the National Parks and Wildlife Service. Including photos or videos as evidence is best if possible. Visit Irish Wildlife Trust and the Hedge Laying Association of Ireland for more information. 

If you believe hedgerows have been cut, removed, or destroyed as a result of wider unauthorised development, also contact the local county council. Please provide full details of the area of concern, including location and photos if possible. 

If you believe that more than 500 metres of hedgerow or field boundary has been removed, please contact An Taisce at [email protected] and provide us with precise location details and photos if possible.

Published: 9th March, 2022

Updated: 22nd March, 2022

Author:

Share this page
  • Email
  • Facebook
  • Twitter

What can I do about the destruction of trees in my community?

Expand

Please visit the Tree Council of Ireland’s website for comprehensive information about tree maintenance, tree felling, legal requirements, and other general tree information. 

Published: 10th March, 2022

Updated: 22nd March, 2022

Author:

Share this page
  • Email
  • Facebook
  • Twitter

Can An Taisce help with injured birds and other wildlife?

Expand

Unless there is a concern that a planning application or development will have an impact on birds or other wildlife, we are unable to help.

If you have found an injured bird, contact an experienced wildlife rehabilitator, which can be found on the Irish Wildlife Matters website. 

If you are concerned about an abandoned baby bird, please remember that it is often the case that they do not need help and it is normal for young birds to leave the nest before they are able to fly. It is best to return the bird back to where it was found or to its nest if it does need help so that its parents can look after it. Otherwise, it will need specialist care. Contact a wildlife rehabilitator, which can be found on the Irish Wildlife Matters website. 

For more information, visit BirdWatch Ireland’s website. Additionally, their FAQ page is an excellent resource.

Published: 11th March, 2022

Updated: 22nd March, 2022

Author:

Share this page
  • Email
  • Facebook
  • Twitter

Can you point me toward gardening/growing resources for wildlife and biodiversity?

Expand

Creating space for and sharing space with nature is so important. Check out these resources if you’re looking to transform your garden or a similar space (no matter how small or large) into a haven for all species.

  • Juanita Browne's Gardening for Biodiversity - information on general gardening tips for biodiversity
  • An Taisce's Composting for Nature - information on composting
  • Freshwater Habitats Trust's website - information on creating ponds
  • BirdWatch Ireland’s website - information on Ireland’s birds, gardening for birds, bird-friendly tips, nestboxes and more.
  • The Tree Council - information on trees (the right tree in the right place!)
  • All-Ireland Pollinator Plan - information on Ireland’s pollinators and pollinator-friendly tips

Published: 12th March, 2022

Updated: 22nd March, 2022

Author:

Share this page
  • Email
  • Facebook
  • Twitter

Where can I find information about built heritage in Ireland?

Expand

The National Inventory of Architectural Heritage's website is a great place to start. The NIAH identifies, records, and evaluates Ireland’s post-1700 architectural heritage, providing the basis for Records of Protected Structures. On their website, you can search buildings, gardens and surveys by county or you can use their mapping tool to find records of both the National Monuments Service (Sites and Monuments Record) as well as the National Inventory of Architectural Heritage.

You can also find An Taisce's Buildings At Risk register here. 

Published: 13th March, 2022

Updated: 23rd March, 2022

Author:

Share this page
  • Email
  • Facebook
  • Twitter

How do I find information about protected structures in Ireland?

Expand

If you are wanting to find out if a building or structure is a Protected Structure, we recommend that you contact the local Council to confirm its status.

Published: 14th March, 2022

Updated: 22nd March, 2022

Author:

Share this page
  • Email
  • Facebook
  • Twitter

How can I become an An Taisce member?

Expand

To become a member, or for details on how to join, types of memberships, and membership benefits, please visit the membership page on our website.

Membership queries can be directed to [email protected]

Published: 15th March, 2022

Updated: 22nd March, 2022

Author:

Share this page
  • Email
  • Facebook
  • Twitter

How can I make a donation?

Expand

If you would like to make a one-off or regular donation please visit the donation page on our website. 

Published: 16th March, 2022

Updated: 22nd March, 2022

Author:

Share this page
  • Email
  • Facebook
  • Twitter

Are you accepting job, internship or volunteer applications?

Expand

For the most up-to-date information regarding vacancies, please visit the vacancies page on our website. Sometimes we have a sudden need for volunteers or interns. If you would like us to keep your details on file in case we do have a sudden need, please send your CV to us at [email protected].

Published: 17th March, 2022

Updated: 22nd March, 2022

Author:

Share this page
  • Email
  • Facebook
  • Twitter

How does An Taisce receive funding?

Expand

An Taisce as an organisational whole is funded from multiple sources. Importantly, An Taisce is made up of two branches, the Education Unit and the Advocacy Unit. The Education Unit receives restricted funding from State and other sources for specific initiatives in education, such as Green Schools. The Advocacy Unit as well as An Taisce’s general administration is funded from membership, philanthropic and commercial income. The costs of making observations, submissions and any appeals in relation to planning are exclusively resourced from advocacy and general funds. The breakdown of these funds is set out clearly alongside the organisation's Annual Report, which is published here. 

Published: 18th March, 2022

Updated: 22nd March, 2022

Author:

Share this page
  • Email
  • Facebook
  • Twitter

Is An Taisce affiliated with any political party/parties?

Expand

Our members are of all ages and come from all walks of life. The one thing we have in common is our concern for the environment and a shared passion to protect nature and our natural and built heritage.

In accordance with the guidance note (Feb 2018) issued by the Charities Regulator under section 14 of the Charities Act 2009, An Taisce has a charitable purpose only. An Taisce engages in political activities or promotes a political cause only where that relates directly to the advancement of our charitable purpose. It does not endorse any political party or candidate.

Published: 19th March, 2022

Updated: 22nd March, 2022

Author:

Share this page
  • Email
  • Facebook
  • Twitter

Who do I contact in relation to an An Taisce's education programmes?

Expand

Please visit the ‘Contact Us’ page here for the most up-to-date contact information. 


You can find links to more information about all the programmes here.

Published: 20th March, 2022

Updated: 23rd March, 2022

Author:

Share this page
  • Email
  • Facebook
  • Twitter

Where can I get legal advice on an environmental or planning matter?

Expand

An Taisce has no in-house legal team, so we unfortunately cannot offer legal advice. Community Law and Mediation runs monthly free legal advice clinics on certain environmental issues including:

  • Health concerns arising from air or water pollution
  • Poor sanitation or access to clean water
  • Poor housing conditions (cold, damp)
  • Homes at risk of flooding
  • Lack of access to green space, parks etc
  • Illegal dumping
  • Noise pollution
  • Negative environmental impacts of a development
  • Energy costs and access to retrofitting schemes or fuel allowance
  • Difficulty accessing information on environmental issues


Click here for more information if you would like avail of this service.

Published: 21st March, 2022

Author:

Share this page
  • Email
  • Facebook
  • Twitter
Back to top

Showing 10 of 21

Latest

  • An Taisce strongly opposes anti-democratic sell-off of Irish land to foreign funds, undermining Irish forestry

    An Taisce strongly opposes anti-democratic sell-off of Irish land to foreign funds, undermining Irish forestry

  • Organic Farming Survey: Barriers and Benefits

    Organic Farming Survey: Barriers and Benefits

    Are you a farmer in the Republic of Ireland? What are your thoughts on organic farming?

  • Pledge to do a #2minutebeachclean as your New Year’s resolution and receive a kit

    Pledge to do a #2minutebeachclean as your New Year’s resolution and receive a kit

  • Ireland’s new Climate Action Plan reads more like a Delayed Actions Plan

    Ireland’s new Climate Action Plan reads more like a Delayed Actions Plan

    Initial reaction to the newly published Climate Action Plan 2023

Most read

  • We Protect

    We Protect

    We hold and preserve a range of heritage properties in trust, including historic buildings and nature reserves.

  • Vacancies

    Vacancies

    There are currently no vacancies.

  • Our Mission

    Our Mission

    Overview of An Taisce's mission, vision and work

  • We Educate

    We Educate

    We develop and run Ireland's most popular and successful environmental and sustainability programmes.

  • Key Staff and Volunteers

    List of the key employees and volunteers in all An Taisce sections with their contact details

  • Compost for Nature

    Compost for Nature

    Our Compost for Nature guide is now available! For years, the garden and landscape industry has been selling us peat moss as “compost.” In reality, this is peat-moss that is nutrient-poor and bad for our peatlands. The good news is that there is another more sustainable way to nurture soil health AND reduce waste - composting!

  • Benefits of Membership

    Benefits of Membership

    Help us to preserve Ireland's rich heritage, protect our beautiful nature, and slow climate change. Become a member of An Taisce and receive these benefits.

  • We Advocate

    We Advocate

    We are a leading voice for all aspects of environmental conservation and sustainable development in Ireland as essential to the wellbeing and resilience of both people and planet

  • Kanturk Castle, Co. Cork

    Kanturk Castle, Co. Cork

    1580s Irish Chieftain's fortified house

  • Volunteer for An Taisce

    Information on how to volunteer with An Taisce and what volunteering opportunities exist.

Tag cloud

agriculture Air quality Biodiversity Buildings at Risk built heritage Climate Energy Heritage heritage at risk Peatlands Planning Press Release Submission summary Threats to Nature Conservation Transport Water
This is our head office address and a map of where to find us.
Application by ESB for change of use from museum to residential at Fitzwilliam Street Lower, Dublin 2

Application by ESB for change of use from museum to residential at Fitzwilliam Street Lower, Dublin 2

This proposal by the ESB to close the Georgian House museum at Fitzwilliam Street would represent the loss of a thirty-year-old heritage and cultural visitor attraction and educational resource for the city Read more

Published: 7th February, 2021

Updated: 8th February, 2021

Author: Kevin Duff

Location: 19, Fitzwilliam Street Lower, Dublin

Latest tweet

Sign up for our mailing list

Please enter your first name
Please enter your last name
Please enter your email address Please enter a valid email address (e.g. [email protected])

Contact us

Head Office
Tailors' Hall
Back Lane
Dublin
D08 X2A3
Ireland

+353 1 454 1786
[email protected]

Links

  • Donate
  • Membership
  • Governance
  • Our Funders
  • Vacancies
  • Accessibility
  • Terms & Conditions
  • Privacy Policy
  • Cookies Policy
  • Sitemap

Follow us

  • Facebook
  • Twitter
  • Instagram

© 2020 An Taisce - The National Trust for Ireland 
Registered in Ireland 12469 - Charity No. CHY4741 - Charity Regulator No. 20006358 - EU Transparency Register No. 473905437651-60

Manage Cookie Preferences