This course will provide you with current and valuable information regarding typical problems and pitfalls in the application of AA in Ireland and other EU Member States. You will be presented with case studies based on recent case law that will put the topic into context and identify possible future changes in relation to the recent EC (Birds and Natural Habitats) Regulations.

We will examine key cases regarding AA & Habitats cases in both Ireland and the EU, including 'Rossmore v Eirgrid' and 'Campbell v Minister for Environment'. We will look at issues such as the AA process, and adverse effects on the integrity of a Natura 2000 site, and we will examine IROPI (Imperative Reasons for Overriding Public Interest) in the context of the AA process including topical IROPI case studies, and much more.

Who should attend?

This course is intended for people who have experience with the preparation of plans and projects involving Appropriate Assessment, and would be relevant to Local Authority planning and environmental staff, heritage officers, developers and consulting & civil engineers.