Scientific and Technical Support for Progressing the Further Development and Rollout of Site Specific Conservation Objectives for Ireland’s SPA Network

Tender description

The National Parks & Wildlife Service (NPWS) of the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage is responsible for the conservation of natural habitats and species and the protection of biological diversity in Ireland. The overall aim of the Habitats Directive is to maintain or restore the favourable Conservation status of habitats and species of community interest. These habitats and species are listed in the Habitats and Birds Directives Special Areas of Conservation (SACs) and Special Protection Areas (SPAs) are designated to afford protection to the most vulnerable of them. These two designations are collectively known as the Natura 2000 network. European and national legislation places a collective obligation on Ireland and its citizens to maintain habitats and species in the Natura 2000 network at favourable conservation condition. The Government and its agencies are responsible for the implementation and enforcement of regulations that will ensure the ecological integrity of these sites. In order to support the implementation and enforcement measures NPWS are rolling our Site Specific Conservation Objectives (SSCOs) for each of the sites that comprise Ireland’s Natura 2000 Network. Approximately one quarter of Ireland’s current SPA Network is supported by SSCOs and further work is now required to complete this task. NPWS are seeking one suitably qualified and experienced candidate for 85 days for service between October, 2021 and February, 2022. The work is to be undertaken primarily at the tenderer’s own premises but also at NPWS HQ in 90 North King Street, Dublin 7*. *Although it is preferred that a blended approach with regard to areas of work, current and future public health guidance or other reasons may dictate a different scenario.