National Parks and Wildlife Service (Ireland)

The National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) is a division of the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage in Ireland. Its primary responsibility is the conservation of natural habitats and wildlife in Ireland.

The NPWS is charged with implementing national and European legislation relating to nature conservation, including the Wildlife Act 1976-2018, the Habitats Directive, and the Birds Directive. Its activities include the designation and management of protected sites, such as Special Areas of Conservation (SACs) and Special Protection Areas (SPAs), as well as National Parks.

Key functions of the NPWS include:

• Protected Area Management: Managing and maintaining National Parks and other designated sites to ensure the protection of their natural values. These sites are legally protected under national and European laws.

• Species Protection: Implementing measures to protect threatened and endangered species of flora and fauna. This involves monitoring populations, enforcing regulations to prevent illegal activities such as poaching, and undertaking conservation projects to improve habitat.

• Habitat Management: Managing habitats outside of protected areas, often through partnerships with landowners and other stakeholders, to ensure their long-term sustainability.

• Licensing and Enforcement: Issuing licenses for activities that may impact protected species or habitats, and enforcing wildlife legislation to prevent illegal activities.

• Research and Monitoring: Conducting scientific research to improve understanding of Ireland’s natural environment and to inform conservation management decisions. This includes monitoring populations of key species and habitats, as well as assessing the impacts of human activities on biodiversity.

• Public Awareness and Education: Promoting public awareness and understanding of the importance of nature conservation through educational programs, publications, and outreach activities.

The NPWS works with a range of partners, including landowners, local communities, non-governmental organizations, and other government agencies, to achieve its conservation goals. The service plays a central role in protecting Ireland’s natural heritage for future generations.