It is good to get an opportunity to mark National Biodiversity Week in the Dáil and to reaffirm the Government’s commitment to the protection and restoration of Ireland's natural heritage. A wide range of issues were raised and highlighted by Members. I acknowledge the great work being done in communities across the country but also that some areas need more attention and focus. Just this morning, I joined the Minister of State, Deputy O’Sullivan, at the National Biodiversity Data Centre in Carriganore in my constituency of Waterford where a memorandum of understanding was signed between the NPWS and the National Biodiversity Data Centre to strengthen our approach to dealing with invasive species. There is no doubt that there is a growing recognition of the importance of biodiversity across the country. Threats to biodiversity are not something that can be addressed by any one person or organisation and I am heartened to acknowledge the cross-party interest and support displayed in numerous statements. National Biodiversity Week gives us a snapshot of the sheer variety of ways we can interact with nature and biodiversity. I congratulate the Irish Environmental Network and the NPWS for their great work in co-ordinating this year’s programme. I also want to acknowledge and pay tribute to the individuals, community groups, and organisations who have organised and participated in events across the country because without their passion and energy, these events simply would not happen. There were some lovely events in my constituency last weekend, including a walking tour of Waterford Harbour with experts on hand to help participants identify flowers, birds and insects. These everyday things are all around us and we do not ordinarily notice them but they are building blocks of our environment. The National Biodiversity Week programme is evolving year on year, reflecting the growing awareness across all sectors of the importance of biodiversity but this is not just about one week in the year. The work being carried out by all participants day in, day out throughout the year shows what can be achieved when local knowledge, State support and citizen interest come together. These are the kinds of efforts that make a difference and are driving real change and I commend everyone on their efforts. These events have helped to shine a light on the everyday places that matter from small local initiatives right up to our national parks and nature reserves as well as everything in between, including green spaces in our towns, villages and cities, our rivers, hedgerows, harbours, back gardens, and boglands. These are not just habitats; they are homes for wildlife and places of well-being for us all. The Government has made a clear statement of intent with record levels of investment in nature and heritage. A sum of €100 million in core funding was provided to the NPWS in 2026. This funding enables collaborative, locally-led projects through initiatives such as the local biodiversity action fund. It also supports the protection and restoration of vital habitats, conservation of threatened species and enhances monitoring and research. It also strengthens enforcement capacity, which is crucial to protecting our habitats. It is a whole-of-society, whole-of-government approach and one to which we are strongly committed. Our young people are key to the future. Through initiatives like the green schools programme and youth biodiversity networks, we are supporting the development of an informed and engaged generation, passionate about biodiversity and we owe it to them to keep investing in these projects. As a Minister of State in the Department and someone from Waterford, it would be remiss of me not to mention a few planned events in my home county that everyone is welcome to participate in, ranging from walks in the Comeragh Mountains and Gracedieu Wood to whale watching off Heilbhic Head. There will also be a cycle along the fantastic Waterford-Dungarvan greenway on Saturday. These events are suitable for the whole family and are an opportunity to get out into nature and to learn about it. With just a few days remaining in National Biodiversity Week, I encourage everyone to check out the website, find events that are of interest or that are local, join in and get a new appreciation of what is right on their doorstep but to do so in a safe and responsible manner which leaves no trace on our landscape. The daily efforts made by farmers, public servants, conservationists, environmentalists, volunteers and members of the public all combine to make a hugely positive impact and we should celebrate that during this National Biodiversity Week. I thank all Members for their contributions.

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