UCD staff to chair and contribute to new Advisory Committee for Ireland’s Nature Restoration Plan
In early November 2024, the Irish government took a pivotal step toward addressing the nation's biodiversity crisis, appointing an Independent Advisory Committee to develop Ireland’s Nature Restoration Plan, chaired by Associate Professor in the UCD School of Mathematics and Statistics and Earth Institute member Dr Aoibhinn Ní Shúilleabháin working alongside Professor Tasman Crowe, UCD’s Vice President for Sustainability and previous director of the Earth Institute. Both Aoibhinn and Tasman previously held prominent roles in the Citizens' Assembly on Biodiversity Loss.
The advisory committee has been established to guide the country’s response to the EU Nature Restoration Law and to shape an inclusive and effective national strategy for restoring Ireland’s natural environment incorporating stakeholder engagement as well as views of the public, key groups and sectors. Aoibhinn and Tasman will spearhead the committee’s efforts, bringing their academic and research expertise and commitment to sustainability to the forefront of this national initiative.
The advisory committee will also play a central role in designing a Nature Restoration Plan that addresses the ecological needs of Ireland’s landscapes, seascapes, urban areas, and biodiversity financing strategies. This includes integrating feedback from technical working groups in each of these areas and ensuring an inclusive approach that listens to farmers, fishers, urban planners, and conservationists.
When announcing the new advisory committee, Minister of State Malcolm Noonan remarked:
“From the very start of the debate around the Nature Restoration Law, I’ve been clear that everyone’s voices will be heard, that decisions will be made on the basis of the best available evidence and that the development of Ireland’s Nature Restoration Plan will be co-designed with stakeholders in a spirit of collaboration, understanding and partnership. The wealth of experience on our Independent Advisory Committee will ensure that the Minister responsible will be well supported to deliver an ambitious, inclusive and impactful Plan that can empower all sectors to restore nature at scale.”
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Dr Aoibhinn Ní Shúillebháin is an award-winning science communicator who recently chaired the Citizens’ Assembly on Biodiversity Loss, which brought together Irish citizens to voice their concerns and ideas on biodiversity, resulting in recommendations that influenced national and international biodiversity agendas. Aoibhinn presented the Citizens' Assemby report and recommendations to the Government and the UN General Assembly. She is Associate Professor in the UCD School of Mathematics and Statistics and a former European Young Leader, a group nominated to create a more equal, innovative and inclusive Europe. |
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Professor Tasman Crowe is Vice President for Sustainability at University College Dublin and an expert in marine ecology and biodiversity. Prior to this, he was director of the Earth Institute and co-founder of a new interdisciplinary BSc in Sustainability. He is Chair of Ireland’s National Biodiversity Forum and chaired an advisory group to the Government on the expansion of Ireland’s network of Marine Protected Areas. His research characterises impacts of multiple stressors on marine ecosystems and the services they provide to society, including their cultural value. |
The six-member advisory committee includes a diverse membership of leaders from various fields, all united by a commitment to biodiversity:
- David Kerr: A Farming for Nature Ambassador who runs a sustainable dairy farm, David brings insights on how agricultural practices can coexist with biodiversity goals
- Linda Lennon: CEO of Birdwatch Ireland and a lifelong advocate for wildlife conservation, Linda’s experience will ensure the Plan prioritizes avian and broader ecological health
- Norah Parke: Former policy officer with the Killybegs Fishermen’s Organisation, Norah provides valuable expertise in sustainable fishing practices and coastal biodiversity
- Joe MacGrath: Former CEO of Tipperary County Council, Joe’s extensive experience in local government will be instrumental in coordinating efforts across municipalities
Together, the advisory committee is positioned to create a Nature Restoration Plan that not only aims to protect Ireland’s biodiversity but also sets a model for nature conservation policies across Europe.
Further information
Ministers announce membership of Advisory Committee for Ireland’s Nature Restoration Plan
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