Appendix A Natura Impact Statement8 Distances from the Oweninny wind farm to the European sites 9 Distances from the Belmullet Wave Energy Test Site to the European sites For inspection

Bellanaboy Bridge Gas Terminal

Appendix A

NATURA IMPACT STATEMENT (NIS)

An ecological impact assessment to support the Appropriate Assessment Process

January 2014

Rev 02

prepared for Shell E & P Ireland Ltd

by

Jenny Neff CEcol CEnv FCIEEM

EACS – Ecological Advisory and Consultancy Services

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Bellanaboy Bridge Gas Terminal Supplementary Update Report Appendix A Natura Impact Statement

Natura Impact Statement January 2014 Rev02 ii

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Contents

1 INTRODUCTION ............................................................................................................................. 1

1.1 The requirement for an assessment under Article 6 ............................................................... 1

1.2 The aim of this report .............................................................................................................. 1

1.3 Background - an Overview of the Corrib Gas Development ................................................... 1

1.4 Consultation ............................................................................................................................ 2

1.4.1 Government Departments ............................................................................................... 2

1.4.2 Other bodies .................................................................................................................... 2

1.5 Constraints .............................................................................................................................. 2

2 THE APPROPRIATE ASSESSMENT PROCESS .......................................................................... 3

2.1 Introduction .............................................................................................................................. 3

2.2 Stages ..................................................................................................................................... 4

2.3 Changes .................................................................................................................................. 5

3 THE ECOLOGICAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT (EcIA) ..................................................................... 6

3.1 Introduction .............................................................................................................................. 6

3.1.1 Purpose of this NIS ......................................................................................................... 6

3.1.2 Previous NIS/Screening Reports .................................................................................... 6

3.2 Impact Assessment Methodology ........................................................................................... 8

3.3 Description of the Bellanaboy Bridge Gas terminal ................................................................ 8

4 EUROPEAN SITES ....................................................................................................................... 10

4.1 Ecological Characteristics of the european Sites .................................................................. 10

4.1.1 Glenamoy Bog Complex SAC (site code: IE0000500) ................................................. 11

4.1.2 Conservation objectives ................................................................................................ 12

4.1.3 Blacksod Bay / Broadhaven SPA (site code IE 004037) .............................................. 13

4.1.4 Broadhaven Bay SAC (Site Code IE 0000472) ............................................................ 14

4.1.5 Carrowmore Lake Complex SAC (Site Code IE 0000476) ........................................... 14

4.1.6 Carrowmore Lake SPA (Site Code IE 004052) ............................................................. 15

4.1.7 Slieve Fyagh Bog SAC (Site Code IE 0000542) ........................................................... 16

4.1.8 Mullet/Blacksod Complex SAC (Site Code IE 0000470)............................................... 16

4.1.9 Erris Head SAC (Site Code 0015101)........................................................................... 17

4.2 European sites in the wider locality ....................................................................................... 18

4.2.1 West Connacht Coast SAC (Site Code IE 002998) ...................................................... 18

5 ASSESSMENT OF LIKELY EFFECTS ......................................................................................... 19

5.1 Consideration of significance ................................................................................................ 19

5.2 Potential impacts of emissions arising from the operation of the terminal ............................ 20

5.2.1 Emissions to surface waters ......................................................................................... 20

5.2.2 Emissions to Atmosphere ............................................................................................. 22

5.2.3 Noise Emissions ............................................................................................................ 23

5.2.4 Light Emissions ............................................................................................................. 23

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Bellanaboy Bridge Gas Terminal Supplementary Update Report Appendix A Natura Impact Statement

Natura Impact Statement January 2014 Rev02 iii

5.3 Impacts on European sites .................................................................................................... 23

5.3.1 Discharges to water....................................................................................................... 23

5.3.2 Emissions to Atmosphere ............................................................................................. 24

5.3.3 Noise emissions ............................................................................................................ 25

5.3.4 Light emissions .............................................................................................................. 25

5.4 Potential impacts on European sites in the wider locality ..................................................... 25

5.5 Cumulative impacts ............................................................................................................... 25

5.5.1 Introduction .................................................................................................................... 25

5.5.2 Corrib Onshore Pipeline Development ......................................................................... 26

5.5.3 Corrib Offshore Pipeline and Offshore Development .................................................... 27

5.5.4 Srahmore Peat Deposition Project ................................................................................ 27

5.5.5 Mayo Galway Natural Gas Pipeline .............................................................................. 28

5.5.6 Oweninny Wind Farm .................................................................................................... 28

5.5.7 Belmullet Wave Energy Test Site.................................................................................. 29

5.5.8 Others ............................................................................................................................ 30

5.5.9 Overall Cumulative Impact of All Projects ..................................................................... 31

6 Mitigation measures ...................................................................................................................... 32

7 Residual Impacts on european sites ............................................................................................. 33

8 Conclusions ................................................................................................................................... 34

APPENDICES Appendix 1: Site synopses for European sites of the Natura 2000 network located in the vicinity of the

Bellanaboy Bridge Gas Terminal and associated project elements Appendix 2: Evaluation and Impact magnitude matrices Appendix 3: Summary screening matrix in relation to the operation of the Bellanaboy Bridge Gas Terminal FIGURES Figure 1 Map to show European sites and other conservation designations within 15km of the Bellanaboy Bridge Gas Terminal

TABLES 1 Natura sites within 15km of the Bellanaboy Bridge Gas Terminal 2 Other designated sites within 15km 3 EPA monitoring data (from http://www.epa.ie/air/quality/data/) 4 Distances from the Corrib Onshore Pipeline to the European sites 5 Distances from the Corrib Offshore Pipeline and Offshore Development to the European sites 6 Distance from the Srahmore Peat Deposition Site to the European sites 7. Distances from the Mayo Galway Natural Gas Pipeline to the European sites 8 Distances from the Oweninny wind farm to the European sites 9 Distances from the Belmullet Wave Energy Test Site to the European sites

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Bellanaboy Bridge Gas Terminal Natura Impact Statement

Natura Impact Statement January 2014 Rev02 1

1 INTRODUCTION 1.1 THE REQUIREMENT FOR AN ASSESSMENT UNDER ARTICLE 6 The requirement for appropriate assessment is set out in Council Directive 92/43/EEC on the conservation of natural habitats and of wild flora and fauna (EU Habitats Directive) in Article 6.3 which states:

‘any plan or project not directly connected with or necessary to the management of the site but likely to have a significant effect thereon, either individually or in combination with other plans or projects, shall be subject to appropriate assessment of its implications for the site in view of the site's conservation objectives’

1.2 THE AIM OF THIS REPORT This Natura Impact Statement (NIS) has been prepared in accordance with European Communities (Birds and Natural Habitats) Regulations 2011 (SI 477 of 2011) and the current guidance from the National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS, 2009, Revised February 2010), and provides an ecological impact assessment (EcIA) for the operation of the Bellanaboy Bridge Gas Terminal (“Terminal”). It has been prepared to accompany an application under Section 90 of the Environmental Protection Agency Act 1992 to 2013 for a review of the Industrial Emissions licence (P0738-01) (previously Integrated Pollution Prevention & Control Licence (P0738-01) for the Terminal (IE Licence) and pursuant to the Environmental Protection Agency (Industrial Emissions)(Licensing) Regulations, 2013. The NIS provides the information required to establish whether or not the operation of the Terminal is likely to have a significant effect on the European sites in view of best scientific knowledge and of the sites’ conservation objectives and specifically on the habitats and species for which the sites have been designated. There are a number of European sites in the vicinity of the Terminal and in the wider locality. These are listed in Table 1, Section 4 below. By taking the ecological impact assessment in a step by step manner in relation to the habitats and species of these sites, together with their conservation objectives, this report seeks to inform the screening process required at the first stage of the process pursuant to Article 6.3 of the EU Habitats Directive and also to provide full and detailed information as required for the second stage, that of Appropriate Assessment, should the competent authority decide that such an appropriate assessment (Appropriate Assessment) is required. This NIS has been prepared by Jenny Neff CEcol CEnv FCIEEM of EACS - Ecological Advisory and Consultancy Services in association Shell E & P Ireland Ltd (SEPIL) with input from RSK Environment Ltd. and relevant disciplines as set out in Section 1 Introduction of the Bellanaboy Bridge Gas Terminal EIS Supplementary Update Report 2014 (the Terminal Supplementary Update Report 2014). This NIS should be read by reference to the Terminal Supplementary Update Report 2014 and the Terminal EIS 2003 and the Offshore EIS Supplementary Update Report 2010.

1.3 BACKGROUND - AN OVERVIEW OF THE CORRIB GAS DEVELOPMENT The Corrib natural gas field is located 83 kilometres offshore of County Mayo. This medium sized gas field is being developed as a subsea ‘tie-back’ facility, connected by a pipeline to an onshore processing terminal located approximately 9 kilometres inland. The Corrib Field was discovered in 1996 by Enterprise Energy Ireland Ltd, which was subsequently acquired by the Royal Dutch Shell Group in 2002. The Corrib Gas Partners are Shell E&P Ireland Limited (SEPIL), Statoil Exploration (Ireland) Limited and Vermilion Energy Ireland Limited. The Corrib gas field development consists of a series of gas wells and seabed infrastructure in the Corrib field, a manifold that will gather the flow of gas from each of the wells, and a pipeline to the

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onshore gas terminal located at Bellanaboy Bridge. The gas pipeline comes ashore at Glengad in Broadhaven Bay from where it will run underground to the Terminal. There will also be a multipurpose umbilical that runs from the Terminal to the Corrib field. A treated water outfall pipeline for the discharge of treated surface water run-off from the Terminal site will run along the route of the pipeline between the Terminal and a point offshore approximately 12.7km from the landfall. A Landfall Valve Installation will be situated close to the landfall of the offshore pipeline, its function being to limit the pressure of the gas in the onshore section of the pipeline. It is proposed to change the discharge point for the treated produced water from the previously permitted outfall point approximately 12.7km from the landfall further out to sea to the Corrib offshore manifold location in 350m water depth in excess of 80 kilometres from landfall. All of the statutory permits and consents necessary to develop the Corrib gas field and associated facilities and infrastructure were in place at the end of 2004 when construction commenced. By November 2009 the offshore production facilities had been installed and the 83km offshore section of the Corrib pipeline between the field and the landfall had been laid. To allow the connection of the Corrib development with the national gas distribution network the 150km Galway to Mayo pipeline was completed in 2006 and is now connected to the Terminal. The 8.3km onshore section of the Corrib pipeline was the last major project element to start construction. While significant progress has been made on all elements of the project, challenges were encountered resulting in delays and necessary amendments to the routing of the onshore pipeline. Construction on the consented 8.3 km onshore section of the Corrib pipeline, the last major project element, commenced in July 2011 and tunnelling under Sruwaddacon Bay is ongoing at the time of writing this NIS. Construction of the Terminal itself is essentially complete. 1.4 CONSULTATION

1.4.1 Government Departments

• Consultations with the National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) of the Department of the

Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht (DAHG) in relation to the Corrib Gas Development commenced in the summer of 2000 and are ongoing.

• Consultations with the Department of Communications, Energy and Natural resources (DCENR) in relation to the Corrib Gas Development are ongoing.

1.4.2 Other bodies

• Consultations have also taken place with the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), and with their technical advisers.

• Mayo County Council has been consulted in relation to water quality in the Carrowmore Catchment.

• Inland Fisheries Ireland: in relation to local rivers and fisheries interests. 1.5 CONSTRAINTS No constraints apply to the preparation of this Natura Impact Statement.

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2 THE APPROPRIATE ASSESSMENT PROCESS

2.1 INTRODUCTION Article 6(3) of the EU Habitats Directive sets out the requirements to carry out an Appropriate Assessment. The first step of the Appropriate Assessment process is to establish whether, in relation to a particular plan or project, Appropriate Assessment is required. Article 6(3) states:

‘Any plan or project not directly connected with or necessary to the management of the site but likely to have a significant effect thereon, either individually or in combination with other plans or projects, shall be subject to appropriate assessment of its implications for the site in view of the site’s conservation objectives. In the light of the conclusions of the assessment of the implications for the site and subject to the provisions of paragraph 4, the competent national authorities shall agree to the plan or project only after having ascertained that it will not adversely affect the integrity of the site concerned and, if appropriate, after having obtained the opinion of the general public.’

A number of guidance documents on the appropriate assessment process have been referred to during the preparation of this NIS. These are:

• SI 477 of 2011 European Communities (Birds and Natural Habitats) Regulations 2011

• Appropriate Assessment of Plans and Projects in Ireland - Guidance for Planning Authorities (NPWS 2009, Revised February 2010);

• EU Guidance document on Article 6(4) of the 'Habitats Directive' 92/43/EEC (2007),

• Assessment of plans and projects significantly affecting Natura 2000 sites. Methodological guidance on the provisions of Article 6(3) and (4) of the Habitats Directive 92/43/EEC (Nov. 2001 – published 2002) ; and

• Managing Natura 2000 Sites: The provisions of Article 6 of the ‘Habitats’ Directive 92/43/EEC (2000).

Should a decision be reached to the effect that it cannot be said with sufficient certainty that the operation of the Terminal is not likely to have significant effects on the Natura 2000 sites, then, as is stated above, it is necessary and appropriate to carry out an appropriate assessment of the implications of the operation of the Terminal for the European sites in view of their conservation objectives. The guidance for Appropriate Assessment (NPWS, 2009, revised February 2010) states:

“AA is an impact assessment process that fits within the decision-making framework and tests of Articles 6(3) and 6(4) and, for the purposes of this guidance, it comprises two main elements. Firstly a Natura Impact Statement – i.e. a statement of the likely and possible impacts of the plan or project on a Natura 2000 site (abbreviated in the following guidance to “NIS”) must be prepared. This comprises a comprehensive ecological impact assessment of a plan or project; it examines the direct and indirect impacts that the plan or project might have on its own or in combination with other plans and projects, on one or more Natura 2000 sites in view of the sites’ conservation objectives. Secondly, the competent authority carries out the AA, based on the NIS and any other information it may consider necessary. The AA process encompasses all of the processes covered by Article 6(3) of the Habitats Directive, i.e. the screening process, the NIS, the AA by the competent authority, and the record of decisions made by the competent authority at each stage of the process, up to the point at which Article 6(4) may come into play following a determination that a plan or project may adversely affect the integrity of a Natura 2000 site”.

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2.2 STAGES The European Commission’s guidance and the national guidance promotes a four stage Appropriate Assessment process, as set out in Box 1 below and outlines the tests namely Screening for Appropriate Assessment and Appropriate Assessment if required at each stage. Stages 1 and 2 deal with the main requirements for assessment under Article 6(3), Stage 3 may be part of Article 6(3) or a necessary precursor for Stage 4.

This NIS includes the ecological impact assessment and testing required under the provisions of Article 6(3) by means of the first stage of Appropriate Assessment, the screening process (as set out in the EU Guidance and national guidance documents).

The NIS also provides the information required for the Competent Authority to complete the Appropriate Assessment (Stage 2) should this be necessary and appropriate in their opinion. An evaluation of alternatives has also been provided to demonstrate that all feasible alternatives for the proposed development had been considered and that the option with the least ecological impact has been selected. See Section 4 of the Terminal EIS including the Supplementary Update Report 2014. With regard to the screening process (Stage 1), EU Commission guidance1 states:

“This stage examines the likely effects of a project or plan, either alone or in combination with other projects or plans, upon a Natura 2000 site and considers whether it can be objectively concluded that these effects will not be significant. This assessment comprises four steps:

• determining whether the project or plan is directly connected with or necessary to the management of the site;

• describing the project or plan and the description and characterisation of other projects or plans that in combination have the potential for having significant effects on the Natura 2000 site;

• identifying the potential effects on the Natura 2000 site;

• assessing the significance of any effects on the Natura 2000 site”.

Furthermore, Article 42 of S.I 477 of 2011 European Communities (Birds and Natural Habitats) Regulations 2011 stipulates that screening for Appropriate Assessment of a plan or project not directly connected with or necessary to the management of a European Site shall be carried out by the competent authority to assess, in view of best scientific knowledge and in view of the conservation objectives of the site, if that plan or project, individually or in combination with other plans or projects is likely to have a significant effect on the European site.

1 Paragraph 3.1 of ‘Assessment of plans and projects significantly affecting Natura 2000 sites. Methodological

Guidance on the provisions of Article 6(3) and (4) of the Habitats Directive 92/43/EEC (Nov. 2001)

Box 1 – Stages of Appropriate Assessment

1Screening

2AA

3Alternatives

4IROPI

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2.3 CHANGES Consideration of the changes now proposed as part of this review application that were not considered as part of Terminal EIS 2003 and 2006 Addendum are:-

• Change of the discharge point for treated produced water to the Corrib subsea manifold location. The treated produced water will be discharged via spare cores in the umbilical between the terminal and the manifold, and if the amount of produced water exceeds the capacity of the umbilical, the excess will be exported via road to licensed water treatment plant.

• The discharge of treated surface water from process areas only through the outfall pipe.

• Storm water: increase to 30 ppm of Suspended Solids Emission Limit Value (SSELV)) (please note that storm water discharge at 30 ppm was assessed in the 2003 EIS and no significant impact indentified.

• Use of Selective Catalytic Reduction technology to reduce NOx emissions from power generation engines. Selection of improved vapour recovery technology (IFRs) to minimise emissions associated with breathing losses from tanks.

• Transitional arrangements for Commissioning with grid gas (Back Feed Gas) – temporary discharge of treated drainage water from process areas (areas at risk of contamination).

• Rationalisation of the drainage design and associated used firewater retention capacity to accommodate all firewater and the simultaneous failure of the 3 largest methanol tanks (Condition of Industrial Emissions licence).

• Rationalisation of storm water management and the automatic diversion of storm water in the event of a fire or chemical spillage (Condition of Industrial Emissions licence).

(See Sections 1 and 2 of the EIS Terminal Supplementary Update Report (2014) for details of the changes). Only those changes in relation to water discharges, emissions to atmosphere (NOx) and noise have the potential to impact on European sites and are assessed at 5 below.

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3 THE ECOLOGICAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT (EcIA) 3.1 INTRODUCTION 3.1.1 Purpose of this NIS The approach and methodology to the EcIA for this NIS has been undertaken with due regard to the EPA Advice Notes on Current Practice (2003); EPA ‘Guidelines on the Information to be contained in Environmental Impact Statements’ (2002); and the Institute of Ecology and Environmental Management’s Guidelines for Ecological Impact Assessment (IEEM, 2006) and with reference to the National Roads Authority Guidelines (NRA) for ecological impact assessment (Revision 2, 2009). The ecological characteristics of European sites in the vicinity of the Terminal are described in Section 4 below, followed by Assessment of Likely Effects, Mitigation Measures and Residual impacts on European Sites in Sections 5, 6 and 7 respectively. Conclusions are set out in section 8. The relevant sections of the Terminal EIS 2003 and the Terminal Supplementary Update Report 2014 to which this NIS is appended, together with their associated technical reports should be referred to for further detail in relation to species and habitats, in particular the Sections 6 and 7 relating to: terrestrial flora and fauna, freshwater ecology and the marine environment. See also the Offshore Supplementary Update Report 2010 Section 7. In accordance with legislation in force at the time2, and prior to the enactment of SI 477 of 2011, the Terminal EIS (RSK, 2003) provided the information required for an assessment of plans and projects under the Article 6(3) of the EU Habitats Directive. However following the enactment of SI 477 of 2011 and, in accordance with new practice guidelines, this NIS has been prepared for the purposes of this review application. This NIS contains an assessment of the likely effects, mitigation measures and residual impacts on European Sites and taking account of the best scientific knowledge and the conservation objectives of each European Site concludes in Section 8 that it can be determined that the operation of the Terminal either individually or in combination with other plans or projects, is not likely to have a significant effect on a European Site. 3.1.2 Previous NIS/Screening Reports For information purposes, set out below are the details of previous NIS’s and Screening Reports carried out in relation to different facets of the Corrib Development but it should be noted that this NIS relates specifically to the application for a review of the Industrial Emissions Licence (P0738-01) (previously Integrated Pollution Prevention & Control Licence (P0738-01). For completeness, it is noted that SI 477 of 2011 provides that a competent authority shall take into consideration other assessments and information (including a Natural Impact Statement) in relation a plan or project, in circumstances where the consents process requires more than one competent authority to make an assessment. Regulation 42 (21) of SI 477 of 2011 states:

(21) (a) Where a public authority, referred to in this paragraph as “the first authority”, has carried out a screening for Appropriate Assessment or an Appropriate Assessment in relation to a plan or project, any other public authority, referred to in this Regulation as “the second authority”, that is required to carry out a screening for Appropriate Assessment or an Appropriate Assessment of the same plan or project shall take account of the screening for Appropriate Assessment or Appropriate Assessment of the first authority in relation to that plan or project, and of any information, including a Natura Impact Statement that was prepared for consideration by the first authority or another second authority in relation to the plan or project.

2 SI 940/1997 European Communities (Natural Habitats) Regulations 1997.

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(b) In taking account of a screening for Appropriate Assessment or Appropriate Assessment in relation to a plan or project and of a Natura Impact Statement, the second authority shall consider the extent to which the scope of that screening for Appropriate Assessment or Appropriate Assessment or Natura Impact Statement covers the issues that would be required to be addressed by the second authority in a screening for Appropriate Assessment or Appropriate Assessment of the plan or project in view of the scope of the consent to be given by it, and shall identify any issues that have not, in that regard, been adequately addressed. (c) Subject to subparagraph (b) and without prejudice to its right to request all such information as it considers necessary to carry out a screening for Appropriate Assessment or Appropriate Assessment, the second authority may limit its requirement for information, including a Natura Impact Statement, to those issues that it determines have not been adequately addressed for the purposes of the second authority in the process of screening for Appropriate Assessment and Appropriate Assessment by the first authority or by another second authority. (d) Where a plan or project requires two or more consents, each of which would require screening for Appropriate Assessment or Appropriate Assessment, the public authorities may carry out, following joint consultation, a joint screening for Appropriate Assessment or a joint Appropriate Assessment. (e) Where two or more public authorities propose to carry out a joint screening for Appropriate Assessment or a joint Appropriate Assessment pursuant to subparagraph (d), the public authorities concerned shall so inform the proponent of the plan or project and provide him or her with a single contact address for correspondence, and they may agree that one public authority shall, in consultation with the others, lead the process and or co-ordinate correspondence with the proponent. (f) For the avoidance of doubt, this paragraph applies to consents under the Planning and Development Acts 2000 to 2011 and to screening for Appropriate Assessments and Appropriate Assessments carried out thereunder.

NISs had been prepared previously for other facets/aspects of the Corrib Gas development. These were:

• Corrib Onshore Pipeline EIS, Appendix P Natura Impact Statement (2010) (which considered the ecological impacts of the onshore pipeline and its cumulative impacts)

• Corrib Ocean Bottom Cable Seismic Survey Natura Impact Statement (to support the Appropriate Assessment Process for the proposed West Connacht Coast SAC) (2013) (which was prepared in relation to seismic surveys in the vicinity of the Corrib Offshore Gas Field)

In addition to these two NISs, reports to inform the appropriate assessment screening process were prepared in connection with planning applications for amendments to the Terminal lodged with Mayo County Council between 2011 and 2013 (See Appendix 2.2 of the Terminal EIS Supplementary Report 2014 for details). These planning applications sought permission for changes to plant and equipment. Screening reports were prepared in respect of the following planning applications to Mayo County Council and for which consent has been granted:

• Planning amendment MCC Reg. Ref. 11/56 (SEPIL Ref. COR-11-SH-PA-011 (2011)



• Planning amendment MCC Reg. Ref. 13/68 (SEPIL Ref. COR-11-SH-PA-015) (2013)

• Planning amendment MCC Reg. Ref. 13/232; ABP Ref. PL16.242283 (SEPIL Ref. COR-11-SH-PA-016) (2013)

• Planning amendment MCC Reg. Ref. 13/355 (SEPIL Ref. COR-11-SH-PA-017) (2013)

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• Planning amendment MCC Reg. Ref. 13/561 (SEPIL Ref. COR-11-SH-PA-018) (pending)

These screening reports concluded that no impact to any Natura 2000 site was anticipated. These reports also concluded that no impact, indirect or otherwise, would affect Natura 2000 sites (the most relevant being two of the European sites identified at Section 4 Table 1 below being Carrowmore Lake SPA and Carrowmore Lake Complex SAC) and in the wider locality. 3.2 IMPACT ASSESSMENT METHODOLOGY The criteria used in this NIS for assessing impact level have been derived from those set out in the NRA EcIA Guidelines and expanded in order to be able to address issues such as habitat quality. For the purpose of this NIS, terminology for impact significance and duration follows that set out in the EPA Advice Notes on Current Practice (2003). Evaluation and Impact Magnitude Tables, together with impact significance and duration, are set out in Appendix 2 of this NIS. The potential impact magnitude described at Appendix 2 without mitigation, is negative unless otherwise stated as being positive or neutral. 3.3 DESCRIPTION OF THE BELLANABOY BRIDGE GAS TERMINAL Shell E & P (Ireland) Limited (SEPIL) propose to operate the Terminal to receive and treat natural gas extracted from the Corrib Field (offshore) for export to the Irish national natural gas transmission network. The facilities at the Terminal will be used to monitor and control the operation of the entire Corrib Field facilities, including the onshore Terminal, the onshore and offshore pipeline as well as the offshore sub-sea facilities such that gas production meets demand and to ensure that operations are conducted in a safe and environmentally sound manner. The Corrib Field is a natural gas field located below the seabed in the Atlantic Ocean ca. 65km off the Mayo coastline and at ca. 350 metres water depth. The Terminal is located near Bellanaboy Bridge, Bellagelly South, Co. Mayo. Planning permission for the construction of the Terminal was granted by An Bord Pleanala in October 2004. The total Terminal site area is ca. 160 hectares, and the footprint of the Terminal itself occupies an area of ca. 13 hectares within the total site area. The site was formerly part of the Peatland Experimentation Station, Glenamoy, established by the Department of Agriculture in 1955, and was developed with the primary aim of finding suitable methods to reclaim and fertilise blanket bog for agricultural and forestry use. The site was administered by the Soils Division of An Foras Taluntais (the agricultural institute, now Teagasc) from 1959 and was wound down towards the late 1970s – early 1980s. The land was subsequently managed by Coillte Teo, and used for commercial forestry. The blocks of land in which the Terminal is located are part of an area formerly used for grass productivity trials, which had been subject to drainage and substantial applications of fertiliser. The dominant vegetation types, conifer plantations and shelterbelt species present prior to construction of the Terminal reflected the past management practices. During the site preparation for the construction of the Terminal approximately 650,000m3 of peat, rock and soil was excavated in order to create a construction platform on which to build the Terminal. Of this, approximately 450,000m3 was transported under licence approximately 10 km by road to a cutover peatland, owned and operated by Bord na Mona, at Srahmore. Approximately 200,000m3 of excavated material was re-used on the site. The construction of the Terminal itself is now essentially complete. The Terminal will treat the incoming gas to meet Bord Gáis specification prior to export to the distribution network. The Terminal is designed to treat up to 350 million standard cubic feet (9.9 million standard cubic metres) of natural gas per day from the Corrib Field.

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The primary functions of the Terminal will be to:

• monitor and control the operation of the entire Corrib Field facilities (onshore and offshore) such that gas production meets demand and to ensure that operations are conducted in a safe and environmentally sound manner;

• remove liquids from the Corrib gas stream so that it meets the transmission specification;

• meter and odourise the gas prior to export to the transmission network;

• recover the hydrocarbon condensate from the gas stream and export it offsite;

• inject methanol and other chemicals for use in the sub-sea facilities and recover methanol for re-use; and

• treat the water removed from the natural gas stream prior to discharge to sea.

The Terminal will operate on a 24-hour, 365-day per year basis. The Terminal will employ a total of ca. 50 full-time staff during operation and will be manned on a 24-hour basis. A further 50 to 70 personnel will be engaged when security personnel, contractors and support staff at the Bellmullet office are included. SEPIL will be in a position to commence operations at the Terminal on the grant of a Revised Industrial Emissions Licence pursuant to this application for a review of Industrial Emissions Licence (P0738-01) (previously Integrated Pollution Prevention & Control Licence (P0738-01). The types of plant and processes to be used in the Terminal are well proven and utilise ‘best available techniques’ (BAT) and will be operated using ‘best available practice’. The technologies and systems used to minimise and control environmental emissions can be considered BAT.

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4 EUROPEAN SITES The Terminal site is not located within any European site or within any other national or international conservation designation area. A number of European sites are located in the vicinity of the Terminal and associated project elements, also in the wider locality. Sites located within 15km of the Terminal are listed in Table 1, while others including Natural Heritage Areas (NHAs) are listed in Table 2. These and other sites in the wider north Mayo area are shown in Figure 1. Table 1: European sites within 15km of the Bellanaboy Bridge Gas Terminal

European site Site Name Site Code Distance from the Terminal

Distance from

12.7km outfall

Distance from treated

produced water

outfall/well-head

Special Area of Conservation (SAC)

Glenamoy Bog Complex 0000500 1.8 km 7.9 km 61.0 km Broadhaven Bay 0000472 6.5 km 0.5 km 52.5 km Carrowmore Lake Complex 0000476 1.3 km 16.9 km 65.9 km Slieve Fyagh Bog 0000542 1.8 km 21.1 km 72.5 km Owenduff/Nephin Complex 0000534 10.2 km 26.3 km 70.9 km Bellacorick Bog Complex 0001922 10.5 km 29.7 km 81.3 km Mullet/Blacksod Bay Complex 0000470 11.5 km 9.3 km 53.7 km Erris Head 0001501 14.3 km 2.2 km 47.4 km West Connacht Coast 0002998 18.4 km 1.0 km 43.1 km

Special Protection Areas (SPA)

Blacksod Bay/Broadhaven 004037 1.9 km 7.8 km 64.0 km Carrowmore Lake 004052 2.9 km 16.9 km 80.2 km Owenduff/Nephin Complex 004098 10.2 km 26.3 km 84.9 km Stags of Broadhaven 004072 14.1 km 13.1 km 80.3 km Illanmaster 004074 11.4 km 21.9 km 89.8 km

Table 2: Other designated conservation sites within 15km

Other Conservation Designations

Site Name Site Code Distance from the Terminal

National: Natural Heritage Area (NHA)

Pollatomish Bog 1548 1.4 km Glenturk More Bog 2419 3.0 km Ederglen Bog 2446 4.0 km Tristia Bog 1566 6.0km Tullaghan Bay and Bog 1567 8.5 km Inagh Bog 2391 12.5 km

International: Ramsar Site

Blacksod Bay / Broadhaven 844 1.9 km

4.1 ECOLOGICAL CHARACTERISTICS OF THE EUROPEAN SITES The following sections describe the ecological features of the European sites in vicinity of the Terminal. Although not directly affected by the operation of the Terminal in terms of emissions to air and water (treated surface water and the treated produced water discharges) the ecological features of sites in the wider locality are also outlined below for completeness. Thus, the Broadhaven Bay SAC and the West Connacht Coast SAC have been considered and assessed because of the physical connection through the waters of the Atlantic - albeit at considerable distances from the discharge locations. The following conservation objectives apply to all sites3:

3 Generic Version 3.0, Department of Arts, Heritage & the Gaeltacht 2011

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“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

4 and Birds Directives and Special Areas of Conservation and Special Protection

Areas 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. The maintenance of habitats and species within Natura 2000 sites at favourable conservation condition will contribute to the overall maintenance of favourable conservation status of those habitats and species at a national level. Favourable conservation status of a habitat is achieved when:

• its natural range, and area it covers within that range, are stable or increasing, and

• the specific structure and functions which are necessary for its long‐term maintenance exist and are likely to continue to exist for the foreseeable future, and

• the conservation status of its typical species is favourable.

The favourable conservation status of a species is achieved when:

• population dynamics data on the species concerned indicate that it is maintaining itself on a long‐term basis as a viable component of its natural habitats, and

• the natural range of the species is neither being reduced nor is likely to be reduced for the

foreseeable future, and

• there is, and will probably continue to be, a sufficiently large habitat to maintain its

populations on a long‐term basis.”

Conservation objectives for the European sites in the Natura 2000 network have been downloaded - as published - from the website of the National Parks and Wildlife Service of the Department of Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht. (http://www.npws.ie/). A summary of each of the European Sites and the other designated sites is set out below along with the conservation objectives identified to each site. The full site synopsis of each site is set out in detail in Appendix 1. 4.1.1 Glenamoy Bog Complex SAC (site code: IE0000500) This is an extensive site on the north Mayo coast, underlain by metamorphic rocks mostly of schists and quartzites, and covers an area of 12,901.8 hectares. It is dominated by low-level, undulating blanket bog, rising to the high peaks of Maumkeogh (379m) and Benmore (343m) to the east, and a fringe of high sea-cliffs (up to 275m) on the northern fringe. The area is drained by four rivers: Muingnabo, Glenamoy, Belderg and Glenglasra. The site includes one medium sized lake. Owing to its exposed position, the site receives rainfall with high concentrations of magnesium and potassium. In addition to the qualifying annexed habitats, the site has marine and estuarine systems, salt marsh and various types of heath, grassland and exposed rock. Many of the areas surrounding the site are now planted with conifers. The SAC includes Sruwaddacon Bay, and the small bay to the north of Rossport both of which are also within the Blacksod Bay / Broadhaven SPA (site code 004037). Sruwaddacon Bay is a shallow tidal inlet which forms an integral part of the Glenamoy River salmonid fishery. The SAC 0000500 has

4 Directive 2009/147/EC on the conservation of wild birds and Council Directive 92/43/EEC on the conservation

of natural habitats and of wild flora and fauna

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been extended to include the salmonid habitats of the Glenamoy and Muingnabo Rivers and many of their tributary streams. 4.1.2 Conservation objectives The site specific conservation objective for the Glenamoy Bog Complex SAC is to maintain or restore the favourable conservation condition of the Annex I habitat(s) and/or the Annex II species for which the SAC has been selected:

• [1106] Salmo salar (only in fresh water)

• [1230] Vegetated sea cliffs of the Atlantic and Baltic coasts

• [1393] Drepanocladus (Hamatocaulis) vernicosus

• [1395] Petalophyllum ralfsii

• [1528] Saxifraga hirculus

• [21A0] Machairs (* in Ireland)

• [3160] Natural dystrophic lakes and ponds

• [4010] Northern Atlantic wet heaths with Erica tetralix

• [5130] Juniperus communis formations on heaths or calcareous grasslands

• [7130] Blanket bogs (* if active only)

• [7140] Transition mires and quaking bogs

• [7150] Depressions on peat substrates of the Rhynchosporion

4.1.2.1 Other species of interest listed on the Natura 2000 Data Form The following species are listed on the Standard Data Form but are not qualifying interest and are not included in the conservation objectives:

• Birds listed on Annex I of Council directive 79/409/EEC: Branta leucopsis (Barnacle Goose), Hydrobates pelagicus (Storm Petrel), Falco columbarius (Merlin), Falco peregrines (Peregrine Falcon), Pluvialis apricaria (Golden Plover), and Pyrrhocorax pyrrhocarax (Chough).

• Regularly occurring migratory birds not listed on Annex I of Council Directive 79/409/EEC (the Birds Directive): Fulmarus glacialis (Fulmar), Puffinus puffinus (Manx Shearwater), Rissa tridactyla (Kittiwake), Alca torda (Razorbill), Uria aalge (Guillemot) and Fratercula arctica (Puffin).

• Other listed bird species of interest include: Lagopus lagopus (Red Grouse), Phalacorax aristoteli (Shag), Larus argentatus (Herring Gull), Larus marinus (Great Black-backed Gull), Cepphus grylle (Black Guillemot).

• Listed faunal species of interest include: Meles meles (Badger), Lepidus timidus hibrenicus (Irish Hare), Salmo trutta (Sea trout), Rana temporaria (Common Frog), Lacerta vivipara (Common Lizard) – (Zootoca vivipara).

• Other listed plant species of interest is Rhynchospora fusca (Brown-beak Sedge).

4.1.2.2 Other Annex I habitats and Annexed species present within the SAC Annex I habitats which are not listed on the Natura 2000 Standard Data Form or included in the conservation objectives, are: Estuaries (1130), Mudflats and sandflats not covered by sea water at low tide (1140), Large shallow inlets and bays (1160) and Atlantic salt meadows (1330) Otter, Lutra lutra (Annex II and IV), Common or Harbour Seal Phoca vitulina (Annex II) and Grey Seal Halochoerus grypus (Annex II) are not included on the Natura 2000 Standard Data Form either as

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qualifying species or as species of importance for the SAC, neither are any other marine mammals listed. 4.1.3 Blacksod Bay / Broadhaven SPA (site code IE 004037) This site is of high ornithological importance for its excellent diversity of wintering waterfowl and for the nationally important populations of five species that it supports. Of particular note is the usage of the site by over 3% of the national Ringed Plover population. It is also of importance as a breeding site for terns and gulls, especially the localised Sandwich Tern. It is of note that seven of the species that occur regularly are listed on Annex I of the EU Birds Directive (Directive 2009/147/EC on the conservation of wild birds), i.e. Great Northern Diver, Red-throated Diver, Golden Plover, Bar-tailed Godwit, Sandwich Tern, Common Tern and Arctic Tern. Sruwaddacon Bay, and the small bay to the north of Rossport, are both included within the SPA. Sruwaddacon Bay is a shallow tidal inlet of special importance for its wintering wildfowl populations, which feed on the intertidal sand/mud flats. 4.1.3.1 Conservation objectives

The site specific conservation objectives for the Blacksod Bay/Broadhaven SPA are: To maintain or restore the favourable conservation condition of the bird species listed as Special Conservation Interests for this SPA:

• Gavia immer [wintering]

• Branta bernicla hrota [wintering]

• Melanitta nigra [wintering]

• Mergus serrator [wintering]

• Charadrius hiaticula [wintering]

• Calidris alba [wintering]

• Calidris alpina [wintering]

• Limosa lapponica [wintering]

• Numenius arquata [wintering]

• Sterna sandvicensis [breeding ]

• Wetlands

4.1.3.2 International designations – Ramsar

“Ramsar” refers to an international convention in relation to wetland sites which was ratified by Ireland in 1985. The Convention has its roots in the protection of wetland wildfowl and for many sites it is species-associated. More recently Ramsar has taken on the more all-encompassing wetland habitat approach which in the context of the EU falls in line with site protection under the EU Habitats Directive. The Ramsar convention has no statutory basis itself, but it is operated through either EU or national legislation, in this case the EU Birds Directive (2009/14/EC) and the EU Habitats Directive through the Wildlife Act 1976 and the Wildlife (Amendment) Act 2000. It must be noted therefore that part of the SPA 004037, including Sruwaddacon Bay, is designated under the Ramsar Convention as follows: Blacksod Bay / Broadhaven (Ramsar Site Code 844) Designated in 1996 the site covers 683 ha and is a “composite of diverse marine and coastal habitats that includes vast dune systems and extensive areas of dune grassland with salt marshes occurring in

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sheltered bays and inlets. The grasslands are of considerable botanical importance. The site also includes several brackish lakes important to various species of breeding waders, large numbers of wintering waterbirds of various species, and internationally important numbers of Brent Geese”.5 4.1.4 Broadhaven Bay SAC (Site Code IE 0000472) This site is of high conservation importance owing to the presence of several habitats that are listed on Annex I of the EU Habitats Directive. In addition, it has ornithological importance for breeding and wintering birds. The full site synopsis for this SAC is provided in Appendix 1 of this report. 4.1.4.1 Conservation objectives The site specific conservation objective for the Broadhaven Bay SAC is to maintain or restore the favourable conservation condition of the Annex I habitat(s) and/or the Annex II species for which the SAC has been selected:

• [1140] Mudflats and sandflats not covered by seawater at low tide

• [1160] Large shallow inlets and bays

• [1170] Reefs

• [1330] Atlantic salt meadows (Glauco‐Puccinellietalia maritimae)

• [8330] Submerged or partly submerged sea caves.

4.1.4.2 Other species of interest listed on the Natura 2000 Data Form The following species are listed on the Standard Data Form but are not qualifying interest and are not included in the conservation objectives:

• Bird species present which are covered by Article 4 of the Directive 79/409/EEC (the Birds Directive) are: Pluvialis apricaria (Golden Plover), Limosa lapponica (Bar-tailed Godwit), Sterna sandvicensis (Sandwich Tern), Sterna hirundo (Common Tern), Sterna paradisaea (Arctic Tern).

• Other listed species of interest for the site include regularly occurring migratory birds (not listed on Annex I of the EU Birds Directive).

• Annex II (EU Habitats Directive) species listed as being of importance for the SAC include a number of marine invertebrates and the plant species Zostera marina (Marine Eelgrass).

While neither qualifying species nor species listed as being of importance for the SAC, a number of cetacean species (Annex IV species of marine mammal), including Harbour porpoise and dolphin species, are known to occur in the SAC. Annex IV species are afforded strict protection under Article 12 of the EU Habitats Directive. 4.1.5 Carrowmore Lake Complex SAC (Site Code IE 0000476) The site comprises Carrowmore Lake, a large, shallow oligotrophic/mesotrophic lake, and Largan More Bog. It is of considerable ecological value, primarily for its extensive, intact blanket bog, which has a typical range of good quality habitats, but also as a site for the very rare Marsh Saxifrage. The site supports a number of Greenland White-fronted Geese, an Annex I bird species.

5 (www.ramsar.org)

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4.1.5.1 Conservation objectives The site specific conservation objective for the Carrowmore Lake Complex SAC is: to maintain or restore the favourable conservation condition of the Annex I habitat(s) and / or the Annex II species for which the SAC has been selected:

• [1393] Drepanocladus (Hamatocaulis) vernicosus

• [1528] Saxifraga hirculus


• [7150] Depressions on peat substrates of the Rhynchosporion

4.1.4.2 Other species of interest listed on the Natura 2000 Data Form The following species are listed on the Standard Data Form but are not qualifying interests and are not included in the conservation objectives:

• Birds listed on Annex I of Council directive 79/409/EEC: Anser albifrons flavirostris (Greenland White-fronted Goose), Falco columbarius (Merlin), Golden Plover (breeding - Pluvialis apricaria), Sterna sandvicensis (Sandwich Tern), Sterna paradisaea (Arctic Tern)

• Regularly occurring Migratory Birds not listed on Annex I of Council directive 79/409/EEC: Larus canus (Common Gull), Aythya fuligula (Tufted Duck), Anas penelope (Wigeon). Anas querquedula (Garganey)

• Other important species of flora and fauna: Erica erigena (Mediterranean Heath), Lepus timidus hibernicus (Irish Hare).

4.1.6 Carrowmore Lake SPA (Site Code IE 004052) Carrowmore Lake is a large (960ha), shallow lake, with a maximum depth of approximately 2.5m and a generally stony bottom. The lake water is almost neutral in terms of acidity (i.e. pH) and generally rather nutrient-poor. The shallow waters support species such as Common Spike-rush (Eleocharis palustris), Shoreweed (Littorella uniflora), Bulbous Rush (Juncus bulbosus) and Perfoliate Pondweed (Potamogeton perfoliatus). Soft Rush (Juncus effusus) and Yellow Iris (Iris pseudacorus) are frequent along the shore, with stands of Common Club-rush (Scirpus lacustris) and Common Reed (Phragmites australis). The lake has one substantial island, Derreens Island, and several small islands; these are dominated by a grassy sward. Carrowmore Lake SPA was designated by means of statutory instrument European Communities Conservation of Wild Birds (Carrowmore Lake SPA 004052) Regulations 2005 (SI No. 713 of 2005). It is of high ornithological importance because of the nationally important nesting gull colony (Black-headed and Common Gull) and, in the past, nesting terns (EU Birds Directive Annex I species), though more recently the terns have nested on Inishderry in Broadhaven Bay. The occurrence of overwintering Greenland White-fronted goose on the adjacent bogs of the Carrowmore Lake Complex SAC is of note because this species is listed on Annex I of the EU Birds Directive and uses the lake for roosting and/ or feeding. 4.1.6.1 Conservation objectives The site specific conservation objective for the Carrowmore Lake SPA is: to maintain or restore the favourable conservation condition of the bird species listed as Special Conservation Interests for this SPA:

• Larus canus [breeding ]

• Sterna sandvicensis [breeding ]

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4.1.6.2 Other species of interest listed on the Natura 2000 Data Form The following species are listed on the Standard Data Form but are not qualifying interests and are not included in the conservation objectives:

• Birds listed on Annex I of Council directive 79/409/EEC: Anser albifrons flavirostris (Greenland White-fronted Goose), Sterna sandvicensis (Sandwich Tern).

• Regularly occurring Migratory Birds not listed on Annex I of Council directive 79/409/EEC (including a qualifying interest): Larus canus (Common Gull), Larus ridibundus (Chroicocephalus ridibundus - Black headed Gull), Phalacrocorax carbo (Cormorant), Anas platyrhynchos (Mallard), Aythya ferina (Pochard), Aythya fuligula (Tufted Duck), Aythya marila ((Greater) Scaup), Bucephala clangula (Goldeneye), Mergus serrator (Red-breasted Merganser).

4.1.7 Slieve Fyagh Bog SAC (Site Code IE 0000542) Slieve Fyagh is an upland plateau, underlain by a bedrock of shales and sandstones, supporting a range of blanket bog types, including mountain, highland and lowland. A series of small oligotrophic lakes occur on the plateau (c.300m) and several streams descend from this area to the lowlands below. The steeply sloping plateau sides support acid grassland communities. This site contains one of the few relatively intact mountain blanket bogs in this region and is of value for its size and diversity of blanket bog types. 4.1.7.1 Conservation objectives The site specific conservation objective for Slieve Fyagh Bog SAC is to maintain or restore the favourable conservation condition of the Annex I habitat(s) and/or the Annex II species for which the SAC has been selected:


4.1.7.2 Other species of interest listed on the Natura 2000 Data Form The following species are listed on the Standard Data Form but are not qualifying interests and are not included in the conservation objectives: Other Important Species of Flora and Fauna: Listera cordata (Lesser Twayblade) 4.1.8 Mullet/Blacksod Complex SAC (Site Code IE 0000470) This site is of high importance for the range of marine and coastal habitats, many of which are listed on Annex I of the EU Habitats Directive, three having priority status. The Annex II species Petalophyllum ralfsii also occurs. The site is also of particular ornithological importance, having four wintering species with internationally important populations and also important concentrations of breeding waders. 4.1.8.1 Conservation objectives The site specific conservation objective for Slieve Fyagh Bog SAC is to maintain or restore the favourable conservation condition of the Annex I habitat(s) and/or the Annex II species for which the SAC has been selected:

• [1140] Mudflats and sandflats not covered by seawater at low tide

• [1160] Large shallow inlets and bays

• [1170] Reefs

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• [1310] Salicornia and other annuals colonizing mud and sand

• [1355] Lutra lutra

• [1395] Petalophyllum ralfsii

• [2120] Shifting dunes along the shoreline with Ammophila arenaria ("white dunes")

• [2130] * Fixed coastal dunes with herbaceous vegetation ("grey dunes")

• [2150] * Atlantic decalcified fixed dunes (Calluno‐Ulicetea)

• [21A0] Machairs (* in Ireland)

• [3150] Natural eutrophic

4.1.8.2 Other species of interest listed on the Natura 2000 Data Form

• Birds listed on Annex I of Council directive 79/409/EEC: Gavia stellata (Red-throated Diver),

Gavia immer (Great Northern-diver), Cygnus cygnus (Whooper Swan), Branta leucopsis (Barnacle Goose), Pluvialis apricaria (Golden Plover), Limosa lapponica (Bar-tailed Godwit), Phalaropus lobatus (Red-necked Phalarope), Sterna albifrons (Little Tern), Anser albifrons flavirostris (Greenland White-fronted Goose).

• Regularly occurring migratory birds not listed on Annex I of Council directive 79/409/EEC: Branta bernicla (Brent Goose), Melanitta nigra (Common Scoter), Mergus merganser (Goosander) , Haematopus ostralegus (Oystercatcher), Charadrius hiaticula (Ringed Plover), Pluvialis squatarola (Grey Plover), Vanellus vanellus (Lapwing), Calidris canutus (Knot), Calidris alba (Sanderling), Calidris alpine (Dunlin), Numenius arquata (Curlew), Gallinago gallinago (Snipe), Tringa nebularia (Greenshank), Arenaria interpres (Turnstone), Tringa tetanus (Redshank).

• Other important species of flora and fauna: Dactylorhiza traunsteineri (Narrow-leaved March Orchid), Carduelis flavirostris (Twite), Selatosomus melanocholicus (a click beetle) Otiorhynchus arcticus ( a weevil), Lepus timidus hibernicus (Irish Hare) Rana temporaria Common Frog), Paracentrotus lividus (Purple sea urchin), Ostrea edulis (Oyster), Phellia gausapata (Olive Green Wart Anemone), Zostera marina (Marine Eel Grass).

4.1.9 Erris Head SAC (Site Code 0015101) This site is of conservation importance primarily for the cliff and alpine heath habitats, both of which are listed on Annex I of the EU Habitats Directive. The presence of several Annex I Bird Directive species and some breeding seabirds adds to the interest of the site. 4.1.9.1 Conservation objectives The site specific conservation objective for the Erris Head SAC is: to maintain or restore the favourable conservation condition of the Annex I habitat(s) and/or the Annex II species for which the SAC has been selected:

• [1230] Vegetated sea cliffs of the Atlantic and Baltic coasts

• [4060] Alpine and Boreal heaths

4.1.9.2 Species of interest listed on the Natura 2000 Data Form The following species are listed on the Standard Data Form but are not qualifying interests and are not included in the conservation objectives:

• Birds listed on Annex I of Council directive 79/409/EEC: Branta leucopsis (Barnacle Goose), Falco peregrinus (Peregrine Falcon) , Pyrrhocorax pyrrhocorax (Chough)

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• Regularly occurring Migratory Birds not listed on Annex I of Council directive 79/409/EEC: Fulmarus glacialis (Fulmar), Larus fuscus (Lesser Black-backed Gull)

• Other important species of flora and fauna: Larus argentatus (herring Gull), Larus marinus (Great Black-backed Gull), Lepus timidus hibernicus (Irish Hare), Rana temporaria (Common Frog).

4.2 EUROPEAN SITES IN THE WIDER LOCALITY 4.2.1 West Connacht Coast SAC (Site Code IE 002998) In December 2012, the Minister for the Department of Arts Heritage and the Gaeltacht (DAHG) declared the intention to designate this site as an SAC for the protection of the Bottlenose Dolphin. This site consists of a substantial area of marine waters lying off the coasts of counties Mayo and Galway in the west of Ireland. Comprising two parts, in its northern component the site extends from the coastal waters off Erris Head westwards beyond Eagle Island and the Mullet Peninsula in County Mayo. From there it extends southwards immediately off the coast as far as the entrance to Blacksod Bay. In its southern component, the site stretches from Clare Island and the outer reaches of Clew Bay at Old Head and continues southwards off the Mayo coast to the Connemara coast near Clifden and Ballyconneely, County Galway. The waters of the West Connacht Coast are of key conservation importance for Bottlenose Dolphin in Ireland. 4.2.1.1 Conservation objectives To date conservation objectives for this site have not been published. The generic criteria for the favourable conservation status of a species as set out at Section 4.1 are assumed to apply, i.e. The favourable conservation status of a species is achieved when:

• population dynamics data on the species concerned indicate that it is maintaining itself on a long‐term basis as a viable component of its natural habitats, and

• the natural range of the species is neither being reduced nor is likely to be reduced for the foreseeable future, and

• there is, and will probably continue to be, a sufficiently large habitat to maintain its populations on a long‐term basis.

Qualifying interest: Tursiops truncatus (Bottlenose Dolphin)

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5 ASSESSMENT OF LIKELY EFFECTS Impact assessment has been undertaken with due regard to the EPA Advice Notes on Current Practice (2003); the EPA Guidelines on the information to be contained in Environmental Impact Statements (2002); with reference to the discipline-specific Institute of Ecology and Environmental Management’s Guidelines for Ecological Impact Assessment (IEEM, 2006) and the National Roads Authority’s Guidelines (NRA), for ecological impact assessment. The criteria used in this NIS for assessing impact level have been derived from those set out in the NRA discipline specific EcIA Guidelines, but expanded in order to be able to address issues such as habitat quality and are shown in Appendix 2 of this report. For the purpose of this NIS, terminology for impact significance and duration follows that set out by the EPA Advice Notes on Current Practice (2003) and is also included in Appendix 2. 5.1 CONSIDERATION OF SIGNIFICANCE In considering whether or not a plan or project individually or in combination with other plans or projects is likely to have a significant effect on a European site, the NPWS Guidance (2010 Rev) uses an EC definition as follows:..” any element of a plan or project that has the potential to affect the conservation objectives of a Natura 2000 site, including its structure and function, should be considered significant (EC, 2006)”. Other guidance documents also discuss significance criteria, some in more detail than others. The Dutch Guidance6 (translated, Neumann, 2004) discusses a number of criteria in relation to habitats and species population. In general, significance indicators might include:

• impact on Annex I habitat (including loss or reduction in size; impairment of function);

• fragmentation of habitat or population (depending upon the duration or permanence);

• disturbance (noise, light etc. - distance, duration);

• effect on species populations (direct or indirect damage to size, breeding patterns etc);

• changes in water quality.

To summarise the significance issue, it is useful to quote from Morris (2008) who describes significance in the context of the Habitats Directive as follows:

“...Within the Habitats Regulations, significance is quite different. It is used as a coarse filter and the test is a question over the possibility that there will be a significant effect on a key receptor that determines the conservation status of a European site. Thus, determining whether there will be a ‘likely significant effect’ does not imply that there will be such an effect or even that such an effect is more likely than not; it simply flags the need to test the issues and then make a judgement of the pathways and mechanisms imposed by a project on the designated wildlife interest. This test best equates to the screening and scoping opinions sought for an EIA but is confined to the Natura 2000 and Ramsar interest rather than wider environmental or nature conservation issues”.

In order to assess the likely impacts and ascertain whether an adverse effect on the integrity of the Natura site(s) is likely to occur as a result of the proposed development, should the appropriate assessment process deemed to be required, it is necessary to consider what constitutes the integrity of a Site as referred to in Article 6(3). The document Managing Natura 2000 Sites, The provisions of Article 6 of the ‘Habitats’ Directive 92/43/EEC (2000) gives clear guidance in this regard and states:

“The integrity of the site involves its ecological functions. The decision as to whether it is adversely affected should focus on and be limited to the site’s conservation objectives”.

6 Translated from Publication of Dutch State Printers in book: ’Praktijkboek Habitattoets’ , 2004 (F. Neumann en H. Woldendorp, SDU)

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Integrity has been discussed and defined in various ways in guidance documentation and the literature. For example, Treweek (1999) discusses biological integrity and ecosystem health, and refers to three generally accepted criteria: systematic indicators of ecosystem functional and structural integrity; ecological sustainability or resilience (relating to the ability of a system to withstand “natural” or anthropogenic stresses); and absence of detectable symptoms of ecosystem disease or stress. A similar, but less academic, approach is adopted by the various guidance documents with a number of definitions proposed. The essence of the concept of ecological integrity is distilled in the following definition from Planning Policy Statement 9 (UK Department of Environment, 1994 – now superseded by PP9, 2005):

“coherence of the site’s ecological structure and function, across its whole area, or the habitats, complex of habitats and/or populations of species for which the site is or will be classified”.

It is further noted that the decision in the European Court of Justice (ECJ) ruling in relation to the Galway Outer Bypass (ECJ Case C-258/11) concerns the interpretation of the requirements under Article 6(3) and Article 6(4) of the Habitats Directive where an Appropriate Assessment of a plan or project has been carried out and how a competent authority should determine (based on the Appropriate Assessment that has been carried out) whether a proposed development will adversely affect the integrity of a European Site. While Case-C-258/11 helpfully clarifies the position in relation to Article 6(3) and Article 6(4) of the Habitats Directive in this regard, based on the conclusions set out in Section 8 below it is considered that the findings in Case C-258/11 are not relevant to this particular review application in circumstances where no Stage 2 Appropriate Assessment is required. 5.2 POTENTIAL IMPACTS OF EMISSIONS ARISING FROM THE OPERATION

OF THE TERMINAL Criteria for assessing impact level have been derived from those set out in the NRA EcIA Guidelines criteria and expanded in order to be able to address issues such as habitat quality. Terminology for impact significance and duration follows that set out by the EPA (2003).

5.2.1 Emissions to surface waters

5.2.1.1 Treated produced water Produced water is a by-product of natural gas production. During the operation of the Terminal, the produced water will be arriving into the plant with the incoming gas stream, and it will be extracted at several points throughout the plant and treated by the produced water treatment system before being discharged to sea. The treated produced water will be discharged into the Atlantic Ocean at the Corrib Field manifold in a water depth of 350 m, a change from the originally proposed coastal discharge point 2km off Erris Head at a water depth of 65m. The treated produced water will be pumped offshore via spare cores in the main control umbilical (i.e. an underwater cable). The proposed change in location of the discharge point as described above further out to sea from an outfall just outside Broadhaven Bay has not involved any change whatsoever in the emission limit levels associated with the discharge. Sections 7 and 9 of the Corrib Offshore EIS Supplementary Offshore Report (RSK, 2010) previously considered and assessed any environmental impacts arising from the relocation of the discharge point of the treated produced water to the subsea manifold 65km offshore as part of the Section 40 Gas Act Consent (2011) and the Plan of Development Addendum Approval (2011) and the Foreshore Licence (2011). In the context of flora and fauna it was concluded while the impacts of the discharge had been previously been as being negligible (and may not even be observable at any significant distance from the then proposed outfall), the relocation of the discharge to a location in deeper water would increase the levels of dispersion further such that any impacts will be reduced even further.

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Section 10 of the Terminal Supplementary Update Report 2014 also considers and assesses the relocation of the discharge point of the treated produced water to the subsea manifold 65km offshore and describes the potential impacts from the biocide that will be injected into the treated produced water stream to prevent fouling within the umbilical core (See at 10.4.5). It concludes on the basis of dispersion calculations that, once it is discharged it will rise through the water column, mixing as it ascends and becoming diluted to background levels within a short distance from the point of discharge. The levels of treatment that the produced water will receive prior to discharge via the umbilical meet the contaminant concentration levels set by the Industrial Emissions Directive licence for the Erris Head discharge location. A careful selection process was carried out to determine the most appropriate biocide to be used for the treated produced water. The biocide is considered to have rapid degradation characteristics in respect of its environmental impacts. The biocide will break down rapidly through hydrolysis and biodegradation. By the time the produced water is discharged at the subsea location at the Corrib Field, the active concentration of the biocide will have reduced to approximately 100 to 200 ppm, and rapid dilution will reduce the concentration down to around 1-2 ppm within 5 m of the discharge location. Based on the combination of the processes of hydrolysis, biodegradation and dilution, overall breakdown and dispersal will be relatively rapid and complete, and as such the overall environmental impacts associated with the addition of biocide to the produced water discharge stream are considered negligible. It is therefore concluded that there will be no impacts to water quality in the area of the Corrib Field resulting from the discharge. 5.2.1.2 Treated surface water Rainwater falling on the Terminal process areas (areas where there is a risk of hydrocarbon contamination) will be collected in the open drain sump and treated in a water treatment plant to ensure that the Emissions Limits Values set in the Industrial Emission licence are achieved. The treated surface water (also termed oily water) will be discharged via the outfall 2km off Erris Head approximately 12.7km from the landfall. The onshore section of the pipeline and associated outfall pipeline and umbilical will not be available at the time Back Feed Gas (BFG) commissioning is scheduled to commence. Therefore, during this transitional phase and until the outfall pipeline is fully connected, it is proposed that the treated surface water from areas where there is risk for hydrocarbon contamination is routed after treatment to the settlement ponds and local ditch instead of the outfall off Erris Head. As soon as the outfall pipe is available, the discharge will be routed back to the permitted outfall discharge point (SW1). (See Section 2 of the Terminal Supplementary Update Report 2014). The Terminal Supplementary Update Report in Section 7 (Aquatic Ecology) concludes that as the mitigation measures relating to surface water runoff from process areas during commissioning will be fully commissioned before general facilities commissioning, and will treat the water to limits set by the Industrial Emissions Licence, there will be no likely significant impact on the receiving environment. 5.2.1.3 Storm water Uncontaminated Surface Water (or “storm water”) is runoff from the Terminal’s non-process areas and roofs, but excludes bunded areas, which drain to the potentially contaminated surface water system. The storm water is collected in the perimeter surface water drains and is routed via an Emergency Holding Tank (EHT) to the settlement ponds located in the south-western corner of the site. Discharge from the settlement ponds is commingled through a discharge channel designed to permit flow proportional sampling, after which the runoff enters the local peat ditch system and ultimately the drainage ditch that runs alongside the R314 road to the southwest of the Terminal and thence into the Carrowmore Lake catchment. It is proposed to increase the suspended solids limit from 5mg/l to 30mg/l in this discharge stream7. It is considered that an increase of the suspended solids concentration to 30mg/l, associated with periods of heavy rainfall, will not give rise to any additional impact over that which has been

7 This 5mg/l limit was provided for in the conditions to Licence P0738-01.

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experienced during the construction phase of the Terminal and which has been shown through monitoring carried out by and on behalf of Mayo County Council not to have had a significant impact on the Bellanaboy River or Carrowmore Lake. This will bring the suspended solids limit more in line with that imposed by Mayo County Council for the construction phase of the project (35mg/l), which level was assessed in the Terminal EIS (2003). As the proposed limit is less than that already imposed by Mayo County Council, and owing to the measures in place to control the quality of surface water leaving the site, no changes to water quality in Carrowmore Lake are anticipated during the remainder of construction or during operation of the Terminal. 5.2.2 Emissions to Atmosphere Emissions of oxides of nitrogen (NOx) can cause acidification and eutrophication of terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems. Sulphur dioxide (SO2) is the other major air pollutant contributor to these effects, but there will be negligible emissions of SO2 from the Terminal owing to the very low sulphur contents of the fuels used. The air quality impact assessment supporting the EIS Supplementary Update Report and the Industrial Emissions licence application specifically reported ground level concentrations of NOx at the points nearest to the Terminal on the sensitive ecological receptors in European sites closest to the Terminal, ie. Carrowmore Lake Complex SAC, Glenamoy Bog Complex SAC, Blacksod Bay/Broadhaven SPA, Slieve Fyagh Bog SAC, and Carrowmore Lake SPA. It predicted that the Terminal’s contribution to annual average ground level concentrations of NOx at these areas will be no greater than 0.2 µg/m3. This is the maximum across all the operational scenarios assessed, all the ecological sites and all the years of meteorological data used for the assessment. Background concentrations of NOx that may be considered to form a picture of the background levels around the Terminal are as shown in Table 3.

Table 3: EPA Rural Monitoring Results

Station location and year NOx annual average (µµµµgm-3

) NO2 annual average (µµµµgm-3

)

Castlebar 2012 11.7 8.0 Kilkitt 2012 4.6 4.1 Kilkitt 2011 3.3 3.1

2012 is the only full year available from the Castlebar station. It is considered that the original terminal survey data remain the most representative data available for use to characterise the background air quality in the vicinity of the terminal. The EPA data give additional confidence in the validity of the data. (See Section 12 of the Terminal Supplementary Update Report 2014 and Air Dispersion Modelling study, 2014)

The applicable NOx annual average air quality standard for the protection of ecosystems is 30µg/m3 (EPA webpage, 2013). The National Roads Authority Guidelines for the Treatment of Air Quality (NRA, 2011) state that where a “scheme is predicted to cause an increase in nitrogen oxides concentrations greater than 2µg/m3 and the concentrations predicted are very close to or exceed the standard (i.e., above 90% of the standard) then the sensitivity of the relevant species should be assessed by the project ecologist”. The maximum project contribution is 0.2µg/m3 and the maximum total concentration (including the highest possible background that might be considered representative) is 12µg/m3, ie. 40% of the standard and so considerably below the threshold required for the protection of ecosystems - the applicable NOx annual average air quality standard for the protection of sensitive ecosystems being 30µg/m3. As neither of these criteria is met or is close to being met, it is considered therefore that there is no requirement for a further detailed assessment of air pollution impacts on ecological receptors.

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5.2.3 Noise Emissions The noise control limits under which the Terminal has been designed and constructed to operate are intended to protect the amenity of the human receptors found in relatively close proximity to the site. These limits, relating to receptor location levels for daytime and night-time operation respectively, are:

• Daytime (07:00 - 23:00) 45dB LAeq,1hour

• Night-time (23:00 - 07:00) 35dB LAeq,15mins

With receptor locations situated close to the Terminal site boundary, noise emissions levels will be controlled to these values within a short distance of the Terminal footprint itself. The results of noise emissions modelling can also be referred to in Section 12 Noise of the Terminal Supplementary Update Report 2014 to illustrate the dispersion of noise from the Terminal. These noise levels are several orders of magnitude below those which might be expected to give rise to any behavioural response nearby, as a result there is no potential for impact or disturbance to any species associated with even the nearest European sites. Significant noise level increases are not anticipated during day to day Terminal operation, including maintenance flaring and cold venting, systems for which have been designed and constructed with noise control in mind. Out-of-condition, or emergency situations, however, could give rise to the need for lit high pressure flaring, which would generate significantly higher noise levels. A detailed breakdown of flare noise emissions for different scenarios can be found in Section 12, Noise of the Terminal Supplementary Update Report, 2014 but it is clear that in the vicinity of the Terminal site such events could give rise to short term behavioural responses from fauna not acclimatised to this noise source within close proximity of the Terminal itself. Once noise levels from flaring have reached the European sites in the vicinity, however, the impact is reduced, as can be seen from the noise contour maps shown in Figures 12.1 and 12.2 in Section12 Noise of the Terminal Supplementary Update Report 2014. 5.2.4 Light Emissions The requirement for lighting during the operation of the Terminal remains as stated in the Bellanaboy Bridge Gas Terminal EIS (RSK 2003). A Light Emissions Management Plan as per Section 17, Table 17.2, of the Bellanaboy Bridge Gas Terminal EIS (RSK 2003) will be implemented once the plant reaches steady state operations. There is no change in light emissions from that assessed in the 2003 Terminal EIS.

5.3 IMPACTS ON EUROPEAN SITES The potential for impact on European sites as a result of the completion of construction, operation and maintenance of the Terminal arise only from indirect impacts in relation to water discharges, emissions to air, noise and light spillage. There will be no likely significant effects from any direct impact from emissions on any European Sites. 5.3.1 Discharges to water 5.3.1.1 Treated produced water The proposed new discharge point is not within or adjacent to a European site and the change in location will result in its being further removed from the nearest European site. The greater depth in oceanic waters will result in even greater dilution effects. As described above at 5.2.1.1 and at Section 10 of the Terminal Supplementary Update Report, in relation to the biocide, based on the combination of the processes of hydrolysis, biodegradation and dilution, overall breakdown, dispersal will be relatively rapid and complete, and as such the overall environmental impacts associated with the addition of biocide to the produced water discharge stream

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are considered negligible. Thus, no impacts to water quality in the area of the Corrib Field resulting from the discharge are anticipated. Given the increased distance from the offshore discharge point to the European sites there is no potential for any impact on any of the sites, their qualifying interests or in view of the conservation objectives of the sites as a result of the operation of the Terminal. 5.3.1.2 Treated surface water The nearest European site to the discharge point is the Erris Head SAC, for which the qualifying interests and conservation objectives are terrestrial habitats therefore there is no potential for any impact on this site. The discharge point lies outside and to seawards of the Broadhaven Bay SAC, and outside the West Connacht Coast SAC. Only the treated surface water will be discharged via the outfall 2km off Erris Head approximately 12.7km from the landfall. The discharge of treated surface water was fully assessed in the Section 9 of the Offshore Supplementary Update Report in 2010, which stated: “During operation, the discharge from the outfall location north of Erris Head will consist of treated surface water run-off from hard surfaces around the Terminal, effectively treated rain water and therefore no impacts are predicted”. Thus no impact is anticipated, direct or indirect, on any European site, their qualifying interests or in view of the conservation objectives of the sites as a result of the discharge of treated surface water from the operation of the Bellanaboy Bridge Gas Terminal. As described in paragraph 5.2.1.2 above and in Section 2 of the Terminal Supplementary Update Report 2014, during the transitional phase of BFG and until the outfall pipeline is fully connected, it is proposed that the treated surface water from the process areas and tankeraccess roads is routed to the settlement ponds and local ditch instead of the outfall off Erris Head. The discharge of treated surface water during the transitional phase will be carried out in accordance with the strict environmental procedures currently in place on the site. At all times compliance with the emission limit values for surface water and atmosphere will be met, therefore no impact to any European site is anticipated. 5.3.1.3 Storm water Owing to the stringent controls in place and the quality of surface water leaving the site, no changes to water quality in Carrowmore Lake are anticipated, both during remainder of construction and during operation. It is noted that the habitats and species for which the Carrowmore Lake Complex SAC has been selected are terrestrial and would therefore not be subject to impact in the unlikely event that a sediment run-off incident should occur. The Carrowmore Lake SPA and the Carrowmore Lake Complex SAC will not be subject to direct or indirect impact as a result of the discharge of storm water. The Terminal will continue to comply with the emission limits currently enforced by Mayo County Council and once the terminal is in operation, it will be complying with those set by the Industrial Emissions licence, consequently there should not be an additional impact as a result of the proposed changes. Therefore no impact to either of these European sites, their qualifying interests or in view of the conservation objectives of the sites as a result of the operation of the Bellanaboy Bridge Gas Terminal is anticipated. In addition, no impact is anticipated, direct or indirect, on any European site in the wide locality as a result of the discharge of storm water from the Bellanaboy Bridge Gas Terminal. 5.3.2 Emissions to Atmosphere As shown above at 5.2.2, the maximum project NOx contribution is 0.2µg/m3 and the maximum total concentration (including the highest possible background that might be considered representative) is 12µg/m3, will be considerably below the threshold required for the protection of sensitive ecosystems - the applicable NOx annual average air quality standard being 30µg/m3.

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It is considered therefore there is no potential for impacts on any European site, their qualifying interests or in view of the conservation objectives of the sites arising out of emissions to the atmosphere. 5.3.3 Noise emissions As set out above at 5.2.3, the noise control limits under which the Terminal has been designed and constructed to operate are intended to protect the amenity of the human receptors found in relatively close proximity to the site. The distances from the Terminal to the European sites in the vicinity is such that no impact is anticipated on species associated with those sites as a result of noise emissions during the remainder of construction and in the operation phase, even during lit high pressure flaring. There is therefore is no potential for impact on any European site, their qualifying interests or in view of the conservation objectives of the sites arising from noise emissions from the Terminal. 5.3.4 Light emissions Given the distances from the Terminal to the European sites and the nature of the qualifying interests for those sites in closest proximity to the Terminal, there is no potential for impact on any of the sites, or in view of the conservation objectives of the sites or qualifying interests as a result of light spillage. 5.4 POTENTIAL IMPACTS ON EUROPEAN SITES IN THE WIDER LOCALITY No impacts, direct or indirect, are anticipated on the habitats and species of European sites, including their qualifying interests or in view of the conservation objectives of the sites, in the vicinity of the Terminal and in the wider locality as a result of the remainder of construction or during the operation phase of the Terminal.

5.5 CUMULATIVE IMPACTS

5.5.1 Introduction The potential cumulative impacts on the European sites, arising from the operation of the Terminal in combination with the impacts from other significant projects, are assessed in this section. The cumulative assessment considers the impacts on European sites in the vicinity of the Terminal and in the wider locality, including:

• Glenamoy Bog Complex Special Area of Conservation

• Broadhaven Bay Special Area of Conservation

• Carrowmore Lake Complex Special Area of Conservation

• Blacksod Bay/Broadhaven Bay Special Protection Area

• Carrowmore Lake Special Protection Area

• Slieve Fyagh Bog Special Area of Conservation

• Mullet/Blacksod Complex Special Area of Conservation

• Erris Head Special Area of Conservation

• West Connacht Coast Special Area of Conservation

Table 1 above indicates the distances to these sites and other sites in the wider area from the Terminal.

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Other projects in the vicinity, which have, or have had, the potential to have a cumulative impact in combination with the Terminal, include:

• Corrib Onshore Pipeline

• Corrib Offshore Pipeline and Offshore Development

• Srahmore Peat Deposition Project (completed)

• Mayo Galway Natural Gas Pipeline (completed)

• Oweninny Wind Farm

• Bellmullet Wave Energy Test Site

• Others

� Cluddaun Windfarm � Gridwest Project � Mayo Renewables � Organic power – Glinsk pumped storage scheme � MAREX Initiative

5.5.2 Corrib Onshore Pipeline Development The potential for impacts on European sites from the Corrib onshore pipeline was assessed in the 2010 Natura Impact Statement which accompanied the Onshore Pipeline EIS (RPS, 2010). The impacts in relation to the onshore pipeline arise only during the construction phase, as a result of ground disturbance and associated activities and emissions. Once the pipeline is operational, there will be no potential for impacts on the European sites as there will be no significant emissions, ground disturbance or activities associated with the pipeline. At the time of preparation of this NIS, the section of pipeline from Aughoose to the Terminal had been constructed, with the non-qualifying Annex I salt marsh and intertidal habitats in the Glenamoy Bog Complex SAC and Blacksod/Broadhaven SPA at the Leenamore inlet (Sruwaddacon Bay) reinstated. The construction of a drainage outfall pipe for the Landfall Valve Installation (LVI) in the cliff at Glengad which is located in the Glenamoy Bog Complex SAC and Blacksod/Broadhaven SPA has also been completed and the cliff fully reinstated. The remaining sections of the pipeline route through the SAC at Glengad, comprising non - annexed improved agricultural grassland habitat, will be constructed and reinstated on completion of the LVI and pipelay through the tunnel once completed, currently scheduled for 2014. Table 4: Distances from the Corrib Onshore Pipeline to the European sites

European site Site Name Site Code Distance from the proposed development

Special Area of Conservation (SAC)

Glenamoy Bog Complex 0000500 0 km Broadhaven Bay 0000472 200m west of landfall Carrowmore Lake Complex 0000476 1.7 km Slieve Fyagh Bog 0000542 2.7 km Owenduff/Nephin Complex 0000534 10.2 km Bellacorick Bog Complex 0001922 11 km Mullet/Blacksod Bay Complex 0000470 13.2 km Erris Head 001501 11.5k m West Connacht Coast 002998 12.5 km

Special Protection Areas (SPA)

Blacksod Bay/Broadhaven 004037 0 km

Carrowmore Lake 004052 3 km Owenduff/Nephin Complex 004098 10.2 km Stags of Broadhaven 004072 8.8 km Illanmaster 004074 10.6 km

Potential for Cumulative Impact

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There is no potential for a cumulative impact from the combination of the operation of the Terminal during normal operations and construction /operation of the onshore pipeline on European sites, either in the vicinity of the Terminal or in the wider locality. 5.5.3 Corrib Offshore Pipeline and Offshore Development The offshore subsea facilities as well as the pipeline and umbilical which run from the Corrib Field offshore to the landfall at Glengad have been constructed. Occasional inspection and maintenance activities associated with these will take place from time to time from marine vessels. Distances from the Corrib Offshore Pipeline and Offshore Development to the European sites are indicated in Table 5. Table 5: Distances from the Corrib Offshore Pipeline and Offshore Development to European Sites

European site Site Name Site Code Approximate distance from Corrib Offshore

Development, at its nearest point

Special Area of Conservation

Glenamoy Bog Complex 000500 0 Broadhaven Bay 000472 0 km Carrowmore Lake Complex 000476 7.4 km Slieve Fyagh Bog 0000542 8.9 km Mullet/Blacksod Bay Complex 0000470 8.6 km Erris Head 001501 2.0 km West Connacht Coast 002998 0.9 km

Special Protection Area

Blacksod Bay/Broadhaven 004037 0 km Carrowmore Lake 004052 7.9 km Stags of Broadhaven 004072 8.7 km Illanmaster 004074 11.7 km

Potential for Cumulative Impact There is no potential for a cumulative impact from the combination of the operation of the Terminal during normal operations and the operation of the offshore pipeline on European sites in the vicinity of the Terminal or in the wider locality. 5.5.4 Srahmore Peat Deposition Project The distances from the Srahmore Peat Deposition Site to European sites are indicated in Table 6. Table 6: Distance from Srahmore Peat Deposition Site to the European Sites

European site Site Name Site Code Approximate distance from Srahmore Peat Deposition

Site, at its nearest point Special Area of Conservation

Glenamoy Bog Complex 000500 10km Broadhaven Bay 000472 9.5km Carrowmore Lake Complex 000476 1km Mullet/Blacksod Bay Complex 0000470 4.5km

Special Protection Area Blacksod Bay/Broadhaven 004037 3.5km Carrowmore Lake 004052 1km

The deposition of peat excavated from the pipeline and Terminal sites at Srahmore Peat Deposition Site, a former commercial cut-away peatland, was predicted to result in a number of temporary impacts on terrestrial flora and fauna during construction as a result of disturbance, including temporary loss of habitat at the deposition site. Approximately 450,000m3 of peat from the Terminal site was deposited at Srahmore under licence. In addition, approx 75,000m3 of peat has been deposited at Srahmore as a result of construction of the Onshore Pipeline. Deposition of the peat has taken place within an area of approximately 63 ha.

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This site is one from which peat had been harvested for a local power station for many years and is saucer shaped with an extensive drainage infrastructure that was installed for industrial peat extraction. On completion, the site has been allowed to recolonise naturally. This promotes the re-establishment of peat-forming conditions and re-instates a peatland ecosystem in place of the original Atlantic blanket bog complex. The vegetation succession will lead to a more varied habitat which will contribute to local biodiversity and complement the ecological significance of the adjacent rehabilitated cutover areas. Over time the habitats will blend with the existing fringe habitats that currently border the development site. The long term prospect is therefore considered to be positive, with permanent beneficial impacts on the development site. The residual impacts overall are considered to be significantly positive given that they should result in habitat rehabilitation and increased local biodiversity. Potential for Cumulative Impact Peat deposition has been completed and vegetation cover is largely re-established. There is no potential for a cumulative impact on European sites from a combination of the two projects. 5.5.5 Mayo Galway Natural Gas Pipeline The distances from the Bord Gáis Mayo Galway Natural Gas Pipeline to the European sites are indicated in Table 7. Table 7: Distances from the Mayo Galway Natural Gas Pipeline to European Sites

European site Site Name Site Code Approximate distance from Mayo Galway Natural Gas

Pipeline, at its nearest point Special Area of Conservation

Glenamoy Bog Complex 000500 >2km Broadhaven Bay 000472 >7.5km Carrowmore Lake Complex 000476 0

Special Protection Area Blacksod Bay/Broadhaven 004037 >2km Carrowmore Lake 004052 3km

The development of the Mayo to Galway Pipeline is complete, the northern (Mayo) section of which was constructed over a period during 2006-2007. It was predicted to result in temporary disturbance and associated impacts on terrestrial flora and fauna. Short term impacts on fauna were limited to the 40m working area along the pipeline, with works timed to minimise disturbance. Potential impacts on flora were minimised through route selection and appropriate construction and re-instatement techniques. There are no predicted impacts to the marine ecology associated with the Mayo to Galway Gas pipeline. The Mayo to Galway Pipeline was predicted to result in negligible impacts on aquatic ecology. Potential for Cumulative Impact Construction of the Mayo to Galway pipeline has been completed and the working area has been reinstated. There is therefore no potential for a cumulative impact on the European sites in the Natura 2000 network from the combination of the operation of the Bellanaboy Bridge Gas Terminal and construction of the Mayo to Galway pipeline. 5.5.6 Oweninny Wind Farm Since the Bellanaboy Bridge Gas Terminal EIS (RSK 2003), planning permission has been sought (June 2013) for the Oweninny Wind Farm on the site of the former Bellacorick Peat Fired Power Station, a site comprising approximately 50km2 formerly utilised for peat harvesting by Bord na Móna. If planning permission is granted, the wind farm will be developed in 3 phases, beginning in 2015, with completion for Phase 1 expected by 2016, Phase 2 expected by 2018 and Phase 3 expected around 2022. The development would include 112 windturbines, 8 meteorological masts, 4 substations, overground and underground cables, visitor centre and associated works including 85km of access tracks etc.

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Potential for Cumulative Impact The development of the wind farm will result in some changes to the habitats within the site but these changes can be considered as being consistent with the rehabilitation of the site since commercial peat extraction ceased in the early 2000s. Once operational, the Terminal is sufficiently remote from the Oweninny site to preclude cumulative impacts on European sites in the Natura 2000 network. Table 8: Distances from the Oweninny Wind farm to the European Sites

European site Site Name Site Code Approximate distance from Oweninny Wind Farm at its

nearest point Special Area of Conservation

Glenamoy Bog Complex 000500 3km Broadhaven Bay 000472 13km Carrowmore Lake Complex 000476 0.2km Slieve Fyagh Bog 0000470 2.5km

Bellacorick Bog Complex 001992 0.0km Special Protection Area Blacksod Bay/Broadhaven 004037 13km

Carrowmore Lake 004052 9km 5.5.7 Belmullet Wave Energy Test Site The distances from the Belmullet Wave Energy Test Site to the European sites are indicated in Table 9. Table 9: Distances from the Belmullet Wave Energy Test Site to the European Sites

Designation Site Name Site Code Approximate distance from Belmullet Wave Energy Test

Site, at its nearest point Special Area of Conservation

Glenamoy Bog Complex 000500 >17km Broadhaven Bay 000472 >7km Carrowmore Lake Complex 000476 >18km Mullet/Blacksod Bay Complex 0000470 0km

Special Protection Area Blacksod Bay/Broadhaven 004037 0km Carrowmore Lake 004052 >18km

The Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland developed a National Wave Energy Test Site, off Annagh Head, on the western shore of the Mullet Peninsula in County Mayo. The purpose of the wave energy test site off Annagh Head was to provide a location for the temporary mooring and deployment of wave energy machines so that their performance in generating electricity and their survivability can be tested and demonstrated in open ocean conditions. The project comprised offshore test sites located between 1km and 12km southwest to west of Annagh Head, in varying water depths, and four submarine cables from the test sites to shore at Belderra Beach. There will be a substation to which the cables will be connected and an onshore power lines from the substation to the power grid. The project commenced in 2008 and the initial testing phase was completed. It was originally proposed that the site would operate for up to 20 years with devices on site intermittently throughout the year. The wave energy devices will float at the surface of the ocean and will be moored to the seabed. The cables to shore will be installed 1m below the ocean floor and the onshore cables will be underground. Potential for Cumulative Impact The distance, and completely different nature of the habitats, will ensure that there will be no potential for a cumulative impact on any European site from the combination of the operation of the Bellanaboy Bridge Gas Terminal and the operation of the wave energy test site.

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5.5.8 Others

5.5.8.1 Cluddaun Wind Farm Coillte Enterprise proposes to build a 48 turbine wind farm in Cluddaun, North Western County Mayo with a capacity to generate up to 150 MW. The site comprises 2,434 ha and is located to the north of the proposed Oweninny Wind Farm. The proposed wind farm is not intended to be developed in phases and while construction activity may be sequenced it is envisaged that the windfarm will be constructed in one phase. The development is currently undergoing pre-application consultation and in circumstances where no planning application has been lodged on this site yet and the uncertainties surrounding it, this project is not considered further here in terms of cumulative impacts. 5.5.8.2 Grid West Project EirGrid are developing a new high capacity power line, known as the Grid West project, which will link the North Mayo area to the existing Flagford substation near Carrick-on-Shannon. The preferred route corridor starts north west of Moygownagh, runs west of Ballina, east of Foxford and Swinford, south of Charlestown and Ballaghaderreen before linking into the existing Flagford substation, near Carrick-on-Shannon. The preferred route corridor is more than 25km away from the Terminal and therefore no cumulative impacts between the two projects are anticipated on any European site in the Natura 2000 network and this project is not considered further. 5.5.8.3 Mayo Renewables Mayo Renewable Power (MRP) comprises a 50 MW (net) biomass High Efficiency CHP plant located on the former Asahi site in Killala, Co. Mayo. In operation, this plant will use virgin biomass (ie. untreated and uncontaminated clean wood and willow). The fuel will be supplied from a variety of sources including locally grown willow, spruce from local forestry and forestry thinnings along with imported supplies. The 50MW (net) electricity produced by the plant will be exported directly onto the National Grid and distributed throughout the country. The spatial separation between the Bellanaboy Bridge Gas Terminal and Killala will ensure that there will be no potential for a cumulative impact on any European site in the Natura 2000 network from the combination of the operation of the Terminal and construction and operation of the MRP plant. 5.5.8.4 Organic Power – Glinsk The location of this proposed hydro-electricity pumped storage project is on the North Mayo coast in close proximity to the Glenamoy Bog Complex SAC. However, given that it is at an early stage of development and that no planning application has been lodged for it, no further consideration is given to it here in the context of cumulative impacts. 5.5.8.5 MAREX Initiative

Organic Power Ltd are seeking planning permission for a proposed 2000MW windfarm (450 wind turbines) across north Mayo which would be connected to a water storage energy hub at Glinsk, which will then transfer the energy back to Bellacorick before being cabled across the country and to the UK where it could provide more than 1% of the UKs total energy demand per year. Known as the MAREX initiative (Method for Atlantic Renewable Energy Export), the project is at Pre-Application Consultation with An Bord Pleanála. Given that no planning application has been lodged and the uncertainties surrounding it, this project is not considered further

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5.5.9 Overall Cumulative Impact of All Projects The nature of the predicted impacts, together with the spatial and temporal separation of the projects discussed above, and the operation of the Terminal are such that there is no potential for any impact on European Sites and it can be determined that the operation of the Terminal either individually or when taken in combination with other plans or projects, is not likely to have a significant effect on the European sites under consideration, or indeed on any other sites.

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6 MITIGATION MEASURES Mitigation measures discussed in this Section are those which are associated with minimising the impacts of emissions arising from the operation of the Terminal, namely emissions to water and air, noise emissions and light emissions. From the above assessment of impacts on European sites in Section 5 it is apparent that mitigation is generally at source, in accordance with Best Available Techniques (BAT) which have been incorporated into the design of the plant, processes, technologies and systems at the Terminal. There is also spatial separation from the Terminal to the European sites. Further mitigation is therefore not required because no impacts are anticipated on any European site in the Natura 2000 network arising from the operation of the Terminal, either in the vicinity or in the wider locality.

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7 RESIDUAL IMPACTS ON EUROPEAN SITES No residual impacts are expected on any European site in the vicinity of the Terminal or in the wider locality in view of the conservation objectives of the sites - the qualifying interests for which the sites have been selected - or indeed on any other habitat and species listed as being of additional conservation interest for the sites.

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8 CONCLUSIONS The potential for impacts resulting from the operation of the Terminal has been considered in the context of the European sites and their conservation objectives. As a result of the EcIA, which takes account of the best scientific knowledge and the conservation objectives of each European Site, it can be determined that the operation of the Terminal either individually or when taken in combination with other plans or projects, is not likely to have a significant effect on a European Site. If it is decided that, it is necessary to carry out an appropriate assessment under Article 6.3 if the EU Habitats Directive, it is the view of the authors of this NIS that the operation of the Terminal will have no adverse affect on the integrity of the European sites in the vicinity and in the wider location or on any other designated site, when taken individually or when taken in combination with the other plans or projects and there is no reasonable scientific doubt in this regard. The conservation objectives for the Special Areas of Conservation (i.e. the habitats and species for which they have been selected) will not be compromised by the operation of the Terminal, and there will be no likely significant effect on the European sites in the Natura 2000 network either when taken individually or when taken in combination with the other plans or projects discussed at Section 5.5 above. However, if it is decided that, it is necessary to carry out an appropriate assessment under Article 6(3) of the EU Habitats Directive, this NIS provides the requisite information to ground such an assessment. In the context of such an assessment it is the considered view of the authors of this NIS that the proposed development will have no adverse affect on the integrity of any European sites or on any other designated site and there is no reasonable scientific doubt in this regard. The conservation objectives for the Special Protection Areas Areas (i.e. the species for which they have been selected) will not be compromised by the operation of the Terminal, and there will be no likely significant effect on the European sites in the Natura 2000 network either when taken individually or when taken in combination with the other plans or projects discussed at Section 5.5 above. However, if it is decided that, it is necessary to carry out an appropriate assessment, this NIS provides the requisite information to ground such an assessment. In the context of such an assessment it is the considered view of the authors of this NIS that the proposed development will have no adverse affect on the integrity of any European sites or on any other designated site and there is no reasonable scientific doubt in this regard.

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9 REFERENCES Dept. of the Environment, 1994 Planning Policy Guidance: Nature Conservation (PPG 9), H.M.S.O. ECJ Case C-258/11, Galway City Outer Bypass 11 April 2013 EPA. 2002. Guidelines on information to be contained in Environmental Impact Statements. EPA, Wexford. EPA. 2003. Advice Notes on Current Practice (in the preparation of Environmental Impact Statements). EPA, Wexford. EU Directive 79/409/EEC of 2nd April 1979 on the conservation of wild birds (the Birds Directive) European Commission 1992 Council Directive No. 92/43/EEC of May 21, 1992 (The Habitats Directive). European Commission. 2000. Managing Natura 2000 sites: The provisions of Article 6 of the ‘Habitats’ Directive 92/43/EEC. Office for Official Publications of the European Communities, Luxembourg. European Commission. 2002. Assessment of plans and projects significantly affecting Natura 2000 sites: Methodological guidance on the provisions of Article 6(3) and (4) of the Habitats Directive 92/43/EEC. Office for Official Publications of the European Communities, Luxembourg. European Commission. 2006. Nature and biodiversity cases: Ruling of the European Court of Justice. Office for Official Publications of the European Communities, Luxembourg. European Commission. 2007a. Guidance document on Article 6(4) of the ‘Habitats Directive’ 92/43/EEC. Clarification of the concepts of: alternative solutions, imperative reasons of overriding public interest, compensatory measures, overall coherence, opinion of the Commission. European Commission. 2007b. Interpretation manual of European Union habitats. EUR27. European Commission, DG Environment. European Communities (Birds and Natural Habitats) Regulations 2011 (S.I. No. 477 of 2011) IEEM 2006 Guidelines For Ecological Impact Assessment The Institute of Ecology and Environmental Management King, J.L., Marnell, F., Kingston, N., Rosell, R., Boylan, P., Caffrey, J.M., FitzPatrick, Ú., Gargan, P.G., Kelly, F.L., O’Grady, M.F., Poole, R., Roche, W.K. & Cassidy, D. (2011) Ireland Red List No. 5: Amphibians, Reptiles & Freshwater Fish. National Parks and Wildlife Service, Department of Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht, Dublin, Ireland. Marnell, F., Kingston, N. & Looney, D. (2009) Ireland Red List No. 3: Terrestrial Mammals, National Parks and Wildlife Service, Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government, Dublin, Ireland. Morris, R. 2008 Understanding the Habitats Directive: Appropriate Assessment - What is it and what is ‘appropriate’? IEEM In Practice Vol. 62 Dec 2008 pp 21-23. National Parks and Wildlife Service. 2008. The Status of EU Protected Habitats and Species in Ireland. Conservation status in Ireland of habitats and species listed in the European Council directive on the conservation of habitats, flora and fauna 92/43/EEC. National Parks and Wildlife Service, Department of Environment, Heritage and Local Government. National Roads Authority. 2004 Guidelines for assessment of ecological impacts of National road schemes. NRA, Dublin. National Roads Authority. 2009 Guidelines for assessment of ecological impacts of National road schemes. Revision 2. NRA, Dublin.

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National Roads Authority, 2011, Guidelines for the Treatment of Air Quality During the Planning and Construction of National Road Schemes. Rev 1 May 2011. NRA Dublin. NPWS (2013) The Status of EU Protected Habitats and Species in Ireland. Species Assessments Volume 3, Version 1.0. Unpublished Report, National Parks & Wildlife Service. Department of Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht, Dublin, Ireland. Neumann, F. en Woldendorp, H. (translated) 2004 Praktijkboek Habitattoets Netherlands NPWS 2009 Appropriate Assessment of Plans and Projects in Ireland - Guidance for Planning Authorities Revised February 2010 Department of Environment, Heritage and Local Government Therivel, R. 2009. Appropriate assessment of plans in England. Environmental Impact Assessment Review 29, 261-272. Treweek, J. 1999 Ecological Impact Assessment Blackwell Science Ltd. Oxford

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Natura Impact Statement January 2014 Rev02

FIGURE 1: Map to show European sites and other conservation designations within 15km of the Bellanaboy Bridge Gas Terminal

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APPENDIX 1:

SITE SYNOPSES FOR EUROPEAN SITES OF THE NATURA 2000 NETWORK LOCATED IN THE VICINITY OF THE BELLANABOY BRIDGE GAS TERMINAL

AND ASSOCIATED PROJECT ELEMENTS

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APPENIDX 1 Site synopses Special Areas of Conservation (SACs) Site Name: Glenamoy Bog Complex Site Code: 000500 This large site is situated in the extreme north-west of County Mayo, where the climate is wet oceanic and gales from the Atlantic are frequent. This area is underlain by metamorphic rocks, comprising mainly schists and quartzites of Moinian age. From sea-level, the site reaches 379m O.D. at Maumakeogh. The soils are predominantly peats, with underlying glacial tills usually only visible along water channels and roads. Four main river systems drain the site: the Glenamoy, the Muingnabo, the Belderg and the Glenglassra Rivers. One medium-sized lake, Lougherglass, occurs on the site. The site is a candidate SAC selected for active blanket bog and machair, both priority habitats on Annex I of the E.U. Habitats Directive. The site is also selected as a candidate SAC for sea cliffs, wet heath, Juniper scrub, transition mires, dystrophic lakes and Rhynchosporion, all habitats listed on Annex I of the E.U. Habitats Directive. The site is also selected for the following species listed on Annex II of the same directive -Atlantic Salmon, the plant Marsh Saxifrage, the liverwort Petalwort and the moss Drepanocladus vernicosus. These 3 plant species are also protected under the Flora Protection Order (1999). Blanket bog, a priority habitat under Annex I of the E.U. Habitats Directive, dominates the site. Glenamoy Bog is a prime example of the extreme oceanic form of lowland blanket bog and is one of the most extensive tracts of bog in the country. The bog occupies a gently undulating plain, but extends uphill to cover the slopes of Maumakeogh and Benmore in the eastern sector of the site, and northward, out toward the sea cliffs of the north-west Mayo coastline. Peat depth reaches 6 metres in the low-lying areas. A large flush occurs at Rathavisteen, which supports species-rich vegetation, including Cranberry (Vaccinium oxycoccos) and a moss (Homalothecium nitens) which is nationally rare. Marsh Saxifrage (Saxifraga hirculus), listed under Annex II of the Habitats Directive is found in another flush area in Barroosky. Five other Annexed habitats occur in close association with the blanket bog -dystrophic lakes, wet heath, Juniper heath, Rhynchosporion depressions and transition mires. Dystrophic lakes, which lie in peaty basins and have peat-stained water, are a common feature of lowland blanket bog. At Glenamoy, the lakes are particularly well-developed. Juniper (Juniperus communis subsp. nana) occurs scattered over the blanket bog, often in association with Crowberry (Empetrum nigrum) and hummocks formed of mosses (Racomitrium lanuginosum). On steep slopes where the peat is shallow, the blanket bog grades into wet heath. Here, Ling Heather (Calluna vulgaris), Cross-leaved Heath (Erica tetralix), Tormentil (Potentilla erecta) and Purple Moor-grass (Molinia caerulea) are found. Where the heath is drier, and especially towards the northern coastal zone of the site, scattered Bearberry (Arctostaphylos uva-ursi) occurs with Ling and Juniper. Transition mires or quaking bogs occur where the bog vegetation merges with flush type vegetation influenced by base enrichment, and also at the interface between large pools/small lakes and adjacent blanket bog. The vegetation is characterised by lawns of Sphagnum, with abundant small sedges (especially Carex limosa, C. paniculata, C. rostrata and C. lepidocarpa), Bogbean (Menyanthes trifoliata) and White-beaked Sedge (Rhynchospora alba). Diagnostic bryophytes (other than Sphagnum) include Aneura pinguis, Drepanocladus revolvens and Calliergon giganteum. Rhynchosporion vegetation is best represented around pool margins and in wet hollows and is often a component of transition mires. Sphagnum cuspidatum and S. auriculatum are principal moss species associated with this habitat, with a relatively low diversity of vascular plants : White-beaked Sedge, Bogbean, Bog cotton (Eriophorum angustifolium), Purple Moor-grass (Molinia caerulea) and sundews (Drosera spp.). The rare Brown Beak-sedge (Rhynchospora fusca) is found in some of the pools and lawns. A rare moss, Drepanocladus vernicosus, has been recorded from an area of poor fen habitat within the blanket bog complex. This is only one of 11 known sites for the plant in Ireland. This species is listed on Annex II of the EU Habitats Directive. The coastal habitats at Glenamoy are extensive and varied. Sea cliffs extend for about 20 km along the north coast and achieve a height of 253m, at Benwee Head. They vary in physical character from sheer cliff-face to slopes of varying gradients. Typical cliff-face vegetation includes Thrift (Armeria maritima), Sea Campion (Silene vulgaris subsp. maritima) and Red Fescue (Festuca rubra). Sea stacks and several islands occur, of which Illaunmaistir is the most notable. A feature of the cliffs is the well developed cliff-top vegetation, which range from typical Plantain-dominated vegetation (Plantago sward) to coastal heath. South of Benwee Head, the rocky coastline grades into an estuarine system, Sruwaddacon Bay, which contains sand dunes and a machair system. Machair is a form of sandy, flat, coastal grassland, and this particular machair is unusual in that it extends upslope at Garter Hill -most machairs occupy flat, low-lying plains. It is, however, now very degraded owing

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mainly to over-grazing by sheep. Petalwort (Petallophyllum ralfsii), a rare bryophyte, listed on Annex II of the E.U. Habitats Directive, occurs abundantly on the machair habitat. This is thought to be the second largest colony (after Slyne Head in Co. Galway) of this species in Ireland. The sea cliffs and islands provide excellent habitat for breeding seabirds. An internationally important population of Storm Petrel (7,500 -10,000 pairs, pre-1987), occurs on Illaunmaistir. A large Puffin colony (c.2,000 pairs, pre 1987) and a small colony of Manx Shearwaters (c.100 pairs) also occurs on Illaunmaistir. The mainland cliffs was the first breeding site in Ireland for Fulmar and now has a very substantial colony (c.2,000 pairs, pre 1987). There is a sizeable Kittiwake colony (c.400 pairs pre 1987) and small colonies of Guillemots and Razorbills (less than 100 individuals of each). Peregrine Falcon and Chough, both Annex I Bird Directive species, breed on the cliffs. Another Annex I species, Merlin, breeds on the blanket bog, as does Golden Plover. In winter, a small flock (less than 50 individuals) of Barnacle Geese visit Illaunmaistir and Kid Island. Otter, an E.U. Habitats Directive Annex II species, occurs on the site, as well as two other Red Data Book mammal species: Badger and Irish Hare. The Glenamoy River is predominantly a western, acidic, spate river which has a valuable late run of salmon (Salmo salar) in July with good spawning habitats and good water quality. Sea Trout are also found. A number of landuse practices have damaged parts of this site. Grazing by sheep and cattle is widespread and over-grazing, which leads to soil erosion, has caused damage to parts of the blanket bog, heath and machair habitats. Peat cutting, by hand and to a lesser extent by mechanised means, is widespread throughout though mostly confined to near roads and tracks. The region in general has been heavily afforested with conifers and much of the site is bounded by plantations. Within parts of the site afforestation continues and poses a threat to the blanket bog. This site is of immense ecological importance because of the presence of a number of E.U. Annex I habitats, including two priority habitats -blanket bog and machair. It supports populations of an Annex II species, two Annex II plant species and six Annex I Birds Directive species. It also has nationally important populations of other seabirds. Despite serious damage to parts of the site in recent years, large areas remain in good condition. Considerable archaeological interest is contained within the site, including the renowned Céide Fields. Furthermore, the site is of outstanding scenic value. Site synopsis date: 7.12.2005 Site Name: Broadhaven Bay Site Code: 000472 Broadhaven Bay is a large, north facing bay situated on the north-west Mayo coast. The site extends from the innermost part of the bay at Belmullet to the outer marine area between Erris Head and Benwee Head. At its outermost part, the site is 10 km wide. Exposure to prevailing winds and wave action diminishes from the mouth toward the head of the bay. Subsidiary inlets along the length of the bay provide further areas of additional shelter. Broadhaven Bay encompasses a range of marine and coastal habitats from extremely exposed bedrock at Benwee Head to sheltered sediments in the inner bay. There are good examples of wave-surged cave communities in shallow water with the anemone Phellia gausapata typically found in areas very exposed to wave action. A cave in deeper water supports colonies of the rare anemone Parazoanthus anguicomus and the soft coral Alcyonium glomeratum. The subtidal reef communities in the outer part of the bay are good examples of the zonation from kelp forest in shallow water to kelp park with an understudy of foliose brown algae and to the sponge communities in deeper water. Species richness can be high (up to 72 species) and the widely distributed but uncommon crab Pirimela denticulata, and hydroid Tamarisca tamarisca were both found at one site. In deeper water the reef communities are characterised by the Axinellid sponge community, communities tolerant of sand scour and communities typical of vertical or steeply sloping bedrock. A range of sublittoral sediments occurs within the site with sediment in the outer part of the bay characterised by bivalves or the burrowing urchin Echinocardium cordatum. Seagrass (Zostera marina) occurs in more sheltered areas and the oyster Ostrea edulis may be present. The inner part of the bay has extensive areas of intertidal mud characterised by polychaete communities or muddy sand which support communities of polychaetes and bivalves, typical for these substrates.

Salt marshes occur in the very sheltered areas at Tallagh and Barnatra. These are fringe marshes on peat and typical of the Atlantic salt meadow type. Species present include Thrift (Armeria maritima), Sea Arrowgrass (Triglochin maritima), Sea Plantain (Plantago maritima), Common Salt-marsh Grass (Puccinellia maritima), and the rushes Juncus gerardii and Juncus maritimus. Turf fucoids occur.

Inishderry, a small island in the inner bay, supports important numbers of breeding terns, with Sandwich Tern (81

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pairs in 1995) and Common and Arctic Terns (42 pairs in 1995). The rare Little Tern has bred in the past. The island also has breeding Black-headed Gulls (100 individuals in 1995). Broadhaven Bay is an important area for wintering waterfowl, being part of a large complex that includes the Mullet and Blacksod Bay. Based on average peak counts over the five winters 1994/95 to 1998/99 the following species have nationally important populations: Red-breasted Merganser (38), Ringed Plover (484), Grey Plover (52), Sanderling (74), Dunlin (2,108) and Bar-tailed Godwit (484). In some winters Brent Goose numbers exceed the threshold of 200 for national and international importance. Regionally important numbers of a number of other species occur: Oystercatcher, Golden Plover, Lapwing, Knot, Curlew, Redshank and Turnstone. This site is of high conservation importance owing to the presence of several habitats that are listed on Annex I of the EU Habitats Directive: large shallow bays; intertidal sand flats, reefs, marine caves and salt marshes. In addition it has ornithological importance for breeding and wintering birds. Site synopsis date: 03.02.2001 Site name: Carrowmore Lake Complex Site Code: 000476 This site is located north and east of Bangor Erris, in County Mayo. There are two main parts to the site: Carrowmore Lake, a large, shallow oligotrophic /mesotrophic lake, and Largan More Bog, an impressive tract of blanket bog. From an altitude of 6m at the lake, the site grades upwards in a general south-easterly direction, reaching 199m on Largan More Bog. Three areas of blanket bog are incorporated into the site: Glenturk, Carrowmore (or Glencullin) and Largan More. Glenturk Bog has a relatively uniform vegetation and Carrowmore Bog is more diverse, with quaking lawns formed by bog mosses (Sphagnum spp.), hummocks (including some formed by Sphagnum fuscum), bog pools and an interconnecting pool system. Largan More is the most extensive and interesting, with a fine interconnecting pool system and large areas of typical, intact blanket bog vegetation. Bog pools are a feature of the bog surface, and these are colonised by a range of mosses and higher plants including Lesser Bladderwort (Utricularia minor), White Water-lily (Nymphaea alba), Water Lobelia (Lobelia dortmanna) and Pipewort (Eriocaulon aquaticum). Species-rich flush communities occur on streamsides and stream-heads. Sedges (including Carex limosa, C. rostrata, C. lepidocarpa) are abundant in flushes, with a rich variety of calcicole herbs and mosses. Cranberry (Vaccinium oxycoccos) occurs in some flushes - this species is uncommon outside the centre of Ireland. Carrowmore Lake is a large (960ha), shallow lake, with a maximum depth of approximately 2.5m and a generally stoney bottom. The lake water is almost neutral in terms of acidity (i.e. pH) and generally rather nutrient-poor. The shallow waters support species such as Common Spike-rush (Eleocharis palustris), Shoreweed (Littorella uniflora), Bulbous Rush (Juncus bulbosus), Marsh Pennywort (Hydrocotyle vulgaris) and Perfoliate Pondweed (Potamogeton perfoliatus). The shoreline is dominated by Soft Rush (Juncus effusus), Yellow Iris (Iris pseudacorus) and stands of Common Club-rush (Scirpus lacustris) or Common Reed (Phragmites australis). This emergent vegetation grades landward into freshwater marsh and acid wet grassland, backed by blanket bog. Along this transition zone, bushes of Mediterranean Heath (Erica erigena) are prominent. This species is frequent in parts of west Mayo, but rare in west Galway and unknown elsewhere in Ireland. The rare Marsh Saxifrage (Saxifraga hirculus) occurs at the site. This species is protected under The Flora Protection Act (1987) and is listed under Annex II of the European Habitats Directive. It is confined in its distribution to north-west County Mayo. The site supports a number of bird species which are of international conservation significance and which are listed on Annex I of the European Birds Directive. In winter, Greenland White-fronted Geese arrive to feed around the lake and in some nearby fields. These birds are a sub-flock of the nationally important Bog of Erris flock. In summer, Merlin and Golden Plover breed on the boglands within the site. An Irish Tern Survey (1984) revealed that Sandwich Tern (164 pairs) and Arctic Tern (18 pairs) formerly bred within the site, and although the terns have not bred in recent years, Derreen's Island still supports a large and important colony of Common Gulls (600 individuals, 1993). A variety of wildfowl also occur, including Tufted Duck, Pochard and Wigeon. Goosander, a very rare species in Ireland, has been recorded. Blanket bog in the site is used for grazing cattle and sheep and for turf-cutting, which is largely done by machine. Angling and water abstraction are the main landuses at Carrowmore Lake. This site is of considerable ecological value, primarily for its extensive, intact blanket bog, which has a typical range of good quality habitats, but also as a site for the very rare Marsh Saxifrage. The north-western part of the

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site supports a number of Greenland White-fronted Geese, while other important bird species which occur are Golden Plover, Merlin, Sandwich Tern and Arctic Tern. Site synopsis date: 28.1.1997 Site Name: Slieve Fyagh Bog Site Code: 000542

Slieve Fyagh Bog is located about 6km north-east of Bangor. It is bounded on the north by the Glenamoy River, on the east and west by forestry plantations, and on the south by the Glencullin River. Slieve Fyagh itself is a plateau of shales and sandstone rocks, reaching an elevation of c. 300m. The plateau supports mountain blanket bog vegetation, unusually for this part of Mayo, where most of the mountains are covered by heath or acid-grassland vegetation. The flatter parts of the plateau have numerous lakes and blanket bog pools, interconnected by quaking, Sphagnum-dominated areas. The largest lake, Lough Naguroge, is colonised by Bottle Sedge (Carex rostrata) and Water Lobelia (Lobelia dortmanna). The scarce orchid, Lesser Twayblade (Listera cordata) occurs along its rocky shores. Several streams descend from the plateau to the lower-lying ground below. These provide suitable habitat for aquatic lichen and moss species, such as Dermatocarpon fluviatile and Fontinalis squamosa. The stream banks are grassy, with species such as Sweet Vernal-grass (Anthoxanthum odoratum), Yorkshire-fog (Holcus lanatus) and Great Wood-rush (Luzula sylvatica). The mosses Campylium stellatum and Philonotis fontana occur where flushes seep from mineral soils. Extensive areas of lowland blanket bog occur on the sloping terrain below the plateau, typified by the occurrence of Black Bog-rush (Schoenus nigricans), Common Cottongrass (Eriophorum angustifolium), Purple Moor-grass (Molinia caerulea), Cross-leaved Heath (Erica tetralix), White Beak-sedge, (Rhynchospora alba) and Deergrass (Scirpus cespitosus). Pool systems occur below the northern slopes of Slieve Fyagh, the best examples being found at Bellagelly Bog. The pools support aquatic plants such as Bogbean (Menyanthes trifoliata), Pipewort (Eriocaulon aquaticum) and Lesser Bladderwort (Utricularia minor). Further downslope, particularly in the vicinity of farmland, the blanket bog is heavily grazed by sheep, while peripheral areas are cut for turf. Serious peat erosion is occurring over much of the low-lying areas, where the peat is criss-crossed by erosion channels. Slieve Fyagh Bog is important for the occurrence of mountain blanket bog, a habitat that is uncommon in this region. The extensive lowland blanket bog that surrounds the plateau is damaged and under threat from overgrazing and peat erosion. Site synopsis date: 9.1.1997 Site Name: Mullet/Blacksod Bay Complex Site Code: 000470

This large coastal site, located in north-west Mayo, comprises much of the Mullet Peninsula, the sheltered waters of Blacksod Bay and the low-lying sandy coastline from Belmullet to Kinrovar. The character of the site is strongly influenced by the Atlantic Ocean and the exposed location of much of the site results in a terrestrial landscape dominated by blown sand and largely devoid of trees. The underlying bedrock is principally metamorphic schist and gneiss. The site displays an excellent range of coastal and marine habitats. The site is a candidate SAC selected for fixed dune, machair and decalcified dune heath all priority habitats on Annex I of the E.U. Habitats Directive. The site is also selected as a candidate SAC for other habitats listed on Annex I of the directive – alkaline fen, eutrophic lake, reefs, Marram dunes, large shallow inlet and bay, tidal mudflats and Salicornia mudflats. In addition, the site is also selected as a candidate SAC for the liverwort, Petalwort and the Otter, a plant and animal species listed on Annex II of the E.U. Habitats Directive. Blacksod Bay is 16 km in length and 8 km wide at the mouth. It is a shallow bay, reaching a maximum depth of 19 m and with weak tidal streams. The bay has a good range of representative littoral and sublittoral sediment communities and also infralittoral reefs. The littoral sediments of the bay consist of areas that are moderately exposed to, or very sheltered from, wave action. Characteristically, exposed to moderately exposed sediment communities are composed of coarse to fine sand and have a polychaete fauna with crustaceans. Species richness increases as conditions become more sheltered. Talitrid amphipods occur in decomposing seaweed on the strand line. Polychaete worms (Arenicola marina), bivalves (Cerastoderma edule) and crustaceans, such as Urothoe brevicornis, Ampelisca brevicornis, and Bathyporeia pilosa, are common in the middle shore.

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The sublittoral sediment towards the entrance of the bay is comprised of rather barren medium sand with the occasional bivalve molluscs Glycymeris glycymeris and Ensis spp. Much of the sediment in the centre of the bay is composed of firm, muddy sand with the brittle stars Amphiura spp. and the razor shells Ensis spp. Towards the head of the bay the sediment is composed of muddy sand with Turritella communis, Amphiura brachiata and Philine aperta and soft sandy mud with Anthopleura balli and decaying algae. In some areas the sea grass Zostera marina and the reef forming polychaete Serpula vermiculata are frequent. Notable species included Oyster (Ostrea edulis), which occurs at head of the bay, and the sea anemone Phellia gausapata, which is present in the middle of the bay. Infralittoral reefs within Blacksod Bay are sheltered or very sheltered from wave action and subject to weak or moderate tidal streams. In sheltered areas that are composed of bedrock, occasional Saccorhiza polyschides overlie a rich assemblage of red algal species such as Dudresnaya verticillata, Heterosiphonia plumosa and Chondria tenuissima. Very sheltered bedrock reef communities are also characterized by foliose red algae. The sea anemone, Metridium senile, is abundant on the tops of the reefs and Antedon bifida on the steeper surfaces. Much of the infralittoral reef in Blacksod Bay is composed of boulders, cobbles and pebbles. The red algae in these areas are sand-tolerant species such as Chondria dasphylla and Gracilaria gracilis. Characterizing faunal species are the anthozoans Metridium senile and Alcyonium digitatum, the hydroid Nemertesia ramosa and the sponge Dysidea fragilis. The purple sea urchin, Paracentrotus lividus, occurs at two sites at the head of the bay. Large areas of machair, a priority habitat on Annex I of the EU Habitats Directive, are found within this extensive coastal site. On the Mullet peninsula the habitat is best developed to the west of Termoncarragh lake, Tonamace/Macecrump and to the west of Cross Lough. On the eastern shores of Blacksod Bay, extensive areas of machair occur at Doolough, Srah and Dooyork. The vegetation of the habitat is dominated by plant species of dry dune grassland which include Red Fescue (Festuca rubra), Wild Thyme (Thymus praecox), Daisy (Bellis perennis), Ribwort Plantain (Plantago lanceolata), Selfheal (Prunella vulgaris), Sand Sedge (Carex arenaria) and Lady’s Bedstraw (Galium verum). The main moss species are Brachythecium albicans, Calliergon cuspidatum and Bryum species. In damper areas of machair the vegetation is transitional to fen and contains, in addition to the typical dry machair species, such species as Fairy Flax (Linum catharticum), Cuckooflower (Cardamine pratensis) and Grass-of-parnassis (Parnassia palustris). Fixed dunes with herbaceous vegetation, another Annex I priority habitat, have an extensive distribution throughout the site and are particularly well developed in the middle and south of the Mullet peninsula, e.g. Emlybeg, Newtown, Agleam. Areas of fixed dunes are typically at their highest c. 500 metres back from the sea and at Emlybeg and Newtown they attain a height of approximately 33 metres. The fixed dunes areas present within the site often form a complex mosaic with other dune habitats such as shifting dunes and machair. Frequent plant species recorded in the habitat include Marram Grass (Ammophila arenaria), Smooth Meadow-grass (Poa pratensis), Wild Carrot (Daucus carota), Common Bird’s-foot-trefoil (Lotus corniculatus), Harebell (Campanula rotundifolia) and Kidney Vetch (Anthyllis vulneraria). The moss cover is well developed and includes Rhytidiadelphus squarrosus, Hypnum cupressiforme, Tortula ruralis and Homalothecium lutescens. The conspicuous lichen Peltigera canina is also occasionally encountered in the vegetation. At Nakil, on the southern tip of the peninsula, there is a fine example of decalcified fixed dunes. In this habitat, there is a range of heath species such as Ling Heather (Calluna vulgaris), Bell Heath (Erica cinerea), Sheep’s Fescue (Festuca ovina), Tormentil (Potentilla erecta) and Devil’s-bit Scabious (Succissa pratensis), along with dune species such as Sand Sedge (Carex arenaria), Lady’s Bedstraw (Galium verum) and Wild Thyme (Thymus praecox). Smaller areas of shifting dunes with Marram (Ammophila arenaria) are found in most of the dune areas within the site and typically occur along the most exposed ridges of sand dune systems. The vegetation is species-poor and generally sparse. Along with Marram, typical plant species include Mayweed (Matricaria maritima), Sea Holly (Eryngium maritimum), Colt’s-foot (Tussilago farfara) and the locally rare Sea Bindweed (Calystegia soldanella). Salt marshes occur in a number of places, notably at Elly Bay, Salleen Harbour, Bunnahowen, Doolough and Gweesalia. Typical species include Thrift (Armeria maritima), Salt-marsh Grass (Puccinellia maritima), Sea Aster (Aster trifolium), Sea Milkwort (Glaux maritima), Sea Rush (Juncus maritimus) and Saltmarsh Rush (Juncus gerardi). At the lower levels of the marshes, and in places extending onto the open sand flats, there occurs Glasswort (Salicornia europaea agg.) and Seablite (Suaeda maritima). The site also includes shallow freshwater lakes, Termoncarragh Lough, Cross Lough and Leam Lough. Cross Lough is a good example of a naturally eutrophic lake. The water of the lake appears to have a permanent turbid, yellow-brown colour and is unusual in that the phytoplankton is dominated by Spirulina spp. and other unusual cyanobacteria. The waters of the lake have a high chloride content (118 mg/l) and a relatively high calcium content (16 mg/l). The western shore of the lake is sandy and tends to be dominated by the stonewort Chara aspera with some Shoreweed (Littorella uniflora). Other aquatic plant species which have been recorded from the lake include Spiked Water-milfoil (Myriophyllum spicatum), Long-stalked Pondweed (Potamogeton praelongus), Slender-leaved Pondweed (Potamogeton filiformis) and Fennel Pondweed (Potamogeton pectinatus).

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Marsh and swamp vegetation is well developed around Termoncarragh Lough, and of particular note is a fine example of alkaline fen. This is species-rich, with such fen plants as Jointed Rush (Juncus articulatus), Glaucous Sedge (Carex flacca), Grass of Parnassus (Parnassia palustris), Knotted Pearlwort (Sagina nodosa), Marsh Arrowgrass (Triglochin palustris), Common Butterwort (Pinguicula vulgaris) and Lesser Clubmoss (Selaginella selaginoides). The scarce Marsh helleborine (Epipactis palustris) also occurs. A feature of the fen is a strong maritime influence, with the presence of a number of salt marsh species such as Sea Milkwort (Glaux maritima), Buck’s-horn Plantain (Plantago coronopus), and Sea Arrowgrass (Triglochin maritima). The Annex II liverwort species Petalophyllum ralfsii has been recently recorded from damp areas of machair at Doolough and Dooyork. The Red Data Book plant species Narrow-leaved Marsh Orchid (Dactylorhiza traunsteineri) also occurs. Otter is well distributed throughout the site. This site has high ornithological importance, with seven Annex I Bird Directive species occurring regularly in winter and a further two as rare breeders. Blacksod Bay provides ideal habitat for divers (all given counts are average maxima over the three winters 1994/95 to 1996/97), with Great Northern Diver (64) occurring in numbers of international importance and Red-throated Divers (45) in significant numbers. The site is an important wintering area for an internationally important population of Barnacle Geese (400-500), and also populations of Greenland White-fronted Geese (56) and Whooper Swans (95). Golden Plover are regular in small numbers (c.700), while a nationally important population of Bar-tailed Godwits (552) occur. Little Tern has bred in small numbers in the past, while the site is well known for one of Ireland’s rarest breeding birds, the Red-necked Phalarope. Unfortunately this species may now be extinct as a breeding species. A wide range of other wintering birds occur. Of particular note are Brent Geese (212) and Ringed Plover (524), both of which have internationally important populations. A further six species have populations of national importance: Common Scoter (642), Red-breasted Merganser (50), Grey Plover (60), Knot (342), Sanderling (58) and Dunlin (2,601). The site is also notable for its breeding waders, with very important concentrations of Dunlin (26 pairs in 1996) and Lapwing (43 pairs in 1996), and significant numbers of Snipe (12 pairs) and Ringed Plover (5 pairs). High levels of grazing and associated agricultural practices, e.g. feeding of stock and fertilisation, has already resulted in locally severe damage to areas of dune and machair. The damage has been intensified by the recent division of dune and machair commonage, which is particularly evident on the Mullet. These agricultural activities remain serious threats. Benthic communities are very vulnerable to bottom-fishing gear such as that used for fishing oysters, and this is thought to be the most damaging activity in the marine area. Bait digging is potentially damaging to littoral sediment communities if the areas are over-fished. This site is of high importance for the range of marine and coastal habitats, many of which are listed on Annex I of the E.U. Habitats Directive, three having priority status. The Annex II species Petalophyllum ralfsii also occurs. The site is also of particular ornithological importance, having four wintering species with internationally important populations and also important concentrations of breeding waders. Site synopsis date: 16.06.2003 Site Name: Erris Head Site Code: 001501 This site is situated on the northern part of the Mullet Peninsula in north Mayo. It comprises approximately 15 km of cliff plus adjoining habitats. The geology of the region consists of acid rocks, such as quartzite, gneiss and Silurian schists and slates. The sea cliffs, which represent a habitat listed on Annex I of the EU Habitats Directive, are very exposed and subject to very high rainfall. They are of moderate height, reaching a maximum of about 90 m in the north-east. Aspect is predominantly north-facing. There is little information available on the vegetation of the cliffs but the known presence of species such as Roseroot (Rhodiola rosea) and Rock Seaspurrey (Spergularia rupicola) suggest that there is a fairly typical cliff vegetation for such an exposed site. An area of sea, which extends 200 m from the base of the cliffs, forms part of the site. This is included mainly to provide added protection for the cliff-nesting seabirds. A notable habitat found at this site is alpine heath, which occurs inland from the tops of the sea cliffs. Alpine heath is listed on Annex I of the EU Habitats Directive. Typical heath species present include Bearberry (Arctostaphylos uva-ursi), Juniper (Juniperus communis) and Crowberry (Empetrum nigrum). The alpine heath is considered to be of good quality. The alpine heath grades into a coastal grassland in places, and coastal grassland forms the main terrestrial habitat at the southern part of the site. Other habitats present include wet heath and flushes. Here, plant species

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present include Blunt-flowered Rush (Juncus subnodulosus), Marsh Helleborine (Epipactis palustris) and three types of Sundew (Drosera spp.). The site is of ornithological importance for a number of species. Chough frequents the site and in 1992 nine pairs were recorded breeding. Peregrine Falcon also breeds, while small numbers (<20) of Barnacle Goose utilise the grasslands in winter. These three species are of note as they are listed on Annex I of the EU Birds Directive. There is a scattering of breeding seabirds though no major colonies. The main seabirds which breed are Fulmar (50-100 pairs, 1970) and Great Black-backed Gull (38 pairs, 1970). Grey Seals may be seen feeding below the cliffs, while on land two Red Data Book species, the Irish Hare and the Common Frog, are among the more notable animals which occur. Landuse at the site consists mainly of sheep grazing, which appears not to be excessive. The area is also a popular location for tourists, especially those interested in walking. This site is of conservation importance primarily for the cliff and alpine heath habitats, both of which are listed on Annex I of the EU Habitats Directive. The presence of several Annex I Bird Directive species and some breeding seabirds adds to the interest of the site. Site synopsis date: 31.3.2002

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Special Protection Areas (SPAs) Blacksod Bay/Broadhaven SPA - Site Code: 004037 Situated in the extreme north-west of Co. Mayo, this site comprises all of the inner part of Broadhaven Bay and the various sheltered bays and inlets in Blacksod Bay, including Trawmore Bay, Saleen Harbour, Elly Harbour and Tullaghan Bay. At low tide extensive areas of intertidal sand and mudflats are exposed. These support a well-developed macro-invertebrate fauna. Talitrid amphipods occur in decomposing seaweed on the strand line, whilst polychaete worms (Arenicola marina), bivalves (Cerastoderma edule) and crustaceans, such as Urothoe brevicornis, Ampelisca brevicornis and Bathyporeia pilosa, are common in the middle shore. Eelgrass (Zostera marina) occurs at several localities. Salt marshes, which are often on a peat substrate, fringe parts of the site and provide useful roosts for the wintering waterfowl. Species typically present include Thrift (Armeria maritima), Common saltmarsh-grass (Puccinellia maritima), Sea Aster (Aster trifolium), Sea Milkwort (Glaux maritima), Sea Rush (Juncus maritimus) and Saltmarsh Rush (Juncus gerardi). At the lower levels of the marshes, and in places extending onto the open sand flats, are found Glasswort (Salicornia europaea agg.) and Seablite (Suaeda maritima). Sandy and shingle beaches are well represented. A small island, Inishderry, situated in the inner part of the bay, is used by nesting terns and gulls. The underlying bedrock consists mainly of schists and gneiss. The site supports an excellent diversity of wintering waterfowl species and is one of the most important wetland complexes in the west. It has nationally important populations of Great Northern Diver (31), Red-breasted Merganser (48), Bar-tailed Godwit (441), Ringed Plover (332) and Dunlin (1,709) - figures are average peaks for the 5 seasons 1995/96-1999/00. It also supports Red-throated Diver (15), Brent Goose (149), Oystercatcher (262), Golden Plover (267), Grey Plover (53), Knot (234), Sanderling (53), Curlew (330), Redshank (96), Turnstone (38), Shelduck (26), Mallard (55), Cormorant (29), Black-headed Gull (183) and Common Gull (161). It provides both feeding and roosting areas for the birds though some species may also utilise marginal habitats above the shoreline for feeding and/or roosting, as well as the shallow marine waters elsewhere in Blacksod Bay. Inishderry Island has a nationally important breeding colony of Sandwich Tern, with 160-170 pairs present in 1994 and 81 pairs in 1995. The terns at this site are considered to be the same population that nested at Carrowmore Lake in the past. It also has nesting Common Tern and Arctic Tern (total for the two species of 42 pairs), and a colony of Black-headed Gull (100 individuals in 1995). Little Tern has also bred in small numbers in the past. There are no serious imminent threats to the various bird populations. Aquaculture occurs and intensification could cause disturbance to the birds and their habitats. Some of the salt marshes have suffered damage due to heavy grazing by sheep, and remain vulnerable. Thie site is of high ornithological importance for its excellent diversity of wintering waterfowl and for the nationally important populations of five species that it supports. Of particular note is the usage of the site by over 3% of the national Ringed Plover population. It is also of importance as a breeding site for terns and gulls, especially the localised Sandwich Tern. It is of note that seven of the species that occur regularly are listed on Annex I of the E.U. Birds Directive, i.e. Great Northern Diver, Red-throated Diver, Golden Plover, Bar-tailed Godwit, Sandwich Tern, Common Tern and Arctic Tern. Site synopsis date: 30.3.2005 Carrowmore Lake SPA – Site Code: 004052 Carrowmore Lake is a large, fairly shallow, oligotrophic/mesotrophic lake, which overlies Dalradian schists and quartzite. The lake generally has a stony bottom and shoreline. Stands of emergent, swamp vegetation occur, especially in sheltered areas. The shallow waters support species such as Common Spike-rush (Eleocharis palustris), Shoreweed (Littorella uniflora), Bulbous Rush (Juncus bulbosus) and Perfoliate Pondweed (Potamogeton perfoliatus). Soft Rush (Juncus effusus) and Yellow Iris (Iris pseudacorus) are frequent along the shore, with stands of Common Club-rush (Scirpus lacustris) and Common Reed (Phragmites australis). The lake has one substantial island, Derreens Island, and several small islands; these are dominated by a grassy sward. Carrowmore Lake is set in a landscape dominated by blanket bogs. There is a long established breeding colony of gulls and terns on Derreens Island. Black-headed Gull and Common Gull both nest in numbers of national importance (37 and 59 pairs respectively in 2000), with the latter representing over 5% of the national total. Considerably higher numbers of both of these species have nested in the past. Sandwich Tern formerly had a large nesting population (164 pairs in 1984) but has not nested in at least the last 5 years. The colony is thought to have moved to an island in Broadhaven Bay but birds still regularly visit the lake and nesting may occur again in the future. Arctic Tern has also nested in the past. Mink predation is considered a problem for the nesting gulls and terns.

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A population of Greenland White-fronted Goose winters on the surrounding bogs and at times uses the lake for roosting and/or feeding. The number of birds using the site is fairly small, with an average peak of 34 for the five winters 1998/99-2002/03. Small numbers of wildfowl, mostly diving duck such as Pochard (72) and Tufted Duck (90), as well as Mallard (38), Scaup (5), Goldeneye (10), Red-breasted Merganser (4) and Cormorant (12) occur in winter. Research is required to determine the reason for the declining gull and tern numbers at Derreens Island. The island may need to be managed to optimise the potential nesting habitat. The lake is a Wildfowl Sanctuary so shooting is not an issue. Carrowmore Lake is of high ornithological importance on account of the nationally important gull colony and, in the past, the nesting terns. The occurrence of Greenland White-fronted Goose is of note as this species is listed on Annex I of the E.U. Birds Directive (as are the tern species). Site synopsis date: 6.10.2004 Marine Special Area of Conservation From the Notice of Intention to Designate (December 2012) Site Name: West Connacht Coast SAC Site Code: 002998 (1) Location of the West Connacht Coast SAC This site consists of a substantial area of marine waters lying off the coasts of counties Mayo and Galway in the west of Ireland. Comprising two parts, in its northern component the site extends from the coastal waters off Erris Head westwards beyond Eagle Island and the Mullet Peninsula in County Mayo. From there it extends southwards immediately off the coast as far as the entrance to Blacksod Bay. In its southern component, the site stretches from Clare Island and the outer reaches of Clew Bay at Old Head and continues southwards off the Mayo coast to the Connemara coast near Clifden and Ballyconneely, County Galway. (2) Why The West Connacht Coast SAC is of Special Scientific Interest Predominantly coastal in nature, the site extends westwards into Atlantic continental shelf waters up to approximately 7-11 km from the mainland, although in its southern component it remains mostly inshore of the dominant islands: Clare Island, Inishturk, Inishbofin and Inishshark. Its area contains subtidal waters fringing these and other islands, as well as islets and rocky skerries off the County Mayo and County Galway coasts. The site encompasses a diverse range of shallow marine habitats occurring in waters less than 100 m deep. These include a variety of seabed structures including reefs, islets and sedimentary basins. The site contains physical and hydrographic features believed to be important for Bottlenose Dolphins Tursiops truncatus, one of two cetacean species listed on Annex II of the E.U. Habitats Directive. These features include shallow coastal bays, areas of steep seafloor topography and complex areas of strong current flow adjacent to estuaries, coastal headlands and islands, sandbanks, shoals and reefs. Its area borders existing designated sites for protected species and habitats, and lies adjacent to a wide array of coastal features including sheltered bays, estuaries, coastal cliffs and sea caves, several of which are located within protected sites. Bottlenose Dolphin occurs within the site in all seasons and the area comprises a key habitat for the species both regionally and within Irish waters as a whole. Survey data show that Bottlenose Dolphin occurrence within the site compares favourably with another designated site in Ireland: the Lower River Shannon. Local population estimates off southwest County Mayo and Connemara, County Galway describe a minimum of 123 dolphins with possibly up to 150-200 individuals or more occurring within the site as a whole, exceeding estimates for the Shannon Estuary population. Significant structural linkages have been established between groups of dolphins utilising various coastal habitats within the site while a high proportion of individuals within this Bottlenose Dolphin community have been shown to range freely within its coastal waters. Analyses of genetic structure also show a fine scale distinction between dolphins sampled within the site and animals sampled at the Shannon Estuary or nationally. Sighting records of Bottlenose Dolphins via coastal and boat-based observations from the Mullet Peninsula and outlying islands, outer Clew Bay, Clare Island, Roonagh, outer Killary Harbour, Ballynakill Harbour and west Connemara are significant for the west coast of Ireland and indicate widespread use of the area by individual groups of dolphins. Groups are known to alter their composition or to aggregate together within the site and comparatively high group sizes of up to 50-65 individual dolphins or more have been recorded in the site’s northern and southern components. Adults closely accompanying calves are commonly observed in summer and autumn months at a number of locations within the site, and group foraging, resting or social behaviour are also regularly recorded. Individual dolphins are also known to recur within and between years at key locations within the site (e.g., outer Killary Harbour, off the Mullet Peninsula), indicating a degree of site fidelity to its coastal waters.

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The waters of the West Connacht Coast represent an exceptional area of key conservation importance for Bottlenose Dolphin in Ireland.

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APPENDIX 2: EVALUATION AND IMPACT MAGNITUDE TABLES

APPENDIX 2: EVALUATION AND IMPACT MAGNITUDE TABLES 2.1 Ecological Site Evaluation Criteria (derived from NRA and IEEM EcIA Guidelines)

Ecological value Criteria Internationally important (A sites)

EU Annex habitat in an internationally designated conservation area (or qualifying site; or site with a proposed designation) A viable area of a habitat type listed in Annex I of the Habitats Directive, or smaller areas of such habitat which are essential to maintain the viability of a larger whole. Non-designated high quality habitat which equates to an EU Annex I priority habitat A regularly occurring, nationally significant population / number of any internationally important species.

Nationally important (B sites)

EU Annex habitat in a designated (or proposed) NHA. Non-designated good example of Annex I habitat (Under EU habitats Directive) Any habitat which may have been formerly classified as EU Annex I quality, but which has been subsequently highly modified as a result of change in the physical environment or damaged. Such a habitat may be still be classified as an Annex habitat on the basis of the presence of one or more character plant species, but can no longer be considered a good example of that habitat type

Locally important

High value (C sites)

Sites containing semi-natural habitat types with high biodiversity in a local context, with high degree of intrinsic naturalness. Locally rare habitats or species

Moderate value (D sites)

Sites containing some semi-natural habitat or locally important for wildlife

Low value (E sites)

Highly modified or artificial habitats with low intrinsic ecological value in terms of biodiversity Artificial habitats which provide some secondary wildlife habitat of local value

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Bellanaboy Bridge Gas Terminal Supplementary Update Report Appendix A Natura Impact Statement: Appendix 3 Screening Matrix


2.2: NRA EcIA criteria for assessing impact magnitude Impact Magnitude Internationally

important (A sites)

Nationally important (B sites)

High value, locally important (C sites)

Moderate value, locally important (D sites)

Low value, locally important (E sites)

Profound negative Any permanent impacts

Permanent impacts on a large part of a site

Significant negative Temporary impacts on a large part of a site

Permanent impacts on a small part of a site


Moderate Negative

Temporary impacts on a small part of a site

Temporary impacts on a large part of a site



Permanent impact on a site if part of a designated site

Slight Negative

Temporary impacts on a small part of a site

Temporary impacts on a large part of a site



Imperceptible Negative

Temporary impacts on a small part of the site

Temporary impacts on a small part of the site


Neutral

No impacts No impacts No impacts No impacts No impacts

Slight Positve Permanent beneficial impacts on a small part of a site

Permanent beneficial impacts on a large part of a site

* For ecological evaluation criteria see Table 5 above

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2.3 EPA Guidelines – Glossary of impacts

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APPENDIX 3: Summary screening matrix in relation to the operation of the Bellanaboy Bridge Gas Terminal This summary includes the impact assessment and testing required under the provisions of Article 6(3) by means of the first stage of Appropriate Assessment, the screening process (as set out in the EU Guidance Document and SI 477 of 2011) and should be read in conjunction with the NIS (to which this screening matrix is appended) and the Bellanaboy Bridge Gas Terminal EIS Supplementary Update Report 2014. The Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government’s guidance (NPWS, 2009) states:

“Screening is the process that addresses and records the reasoning and conclusions in relation to the first two tests of Article 6(3):

• whether a plan or project is directly connected to or necessary for the management of the site; and

• whether a plan or project, alone or in combination with other plans and projects, is likely to have significant effects on a Natura 2000 site in view of its conservation objectives.

If the effects are deemed to be significant, potentially significant, or uncertain, or if the screening process becomes overly complicated, then the process must proceed to Stage 2 (AA). Screening should be undertaken without the inclusion of mitigation, unless potential impacts clearly can be avoided through the modification or redesign of the plan or project, in which case the screening process is repeated on the altered plan. The greatest level of evidence and justification will be needed in circumstances when the process ends at screening stage on grounds of no impact.”

The following sections (3.1 and 3.2) comprise the required assessment as laid out in the screening sections and screening matrix of the EU Guidance documentation8. 3.1 ASSESSMENT CRITERIA 3.1.1 Description of the individual elements of the project (either alone or in combination with other plans or projects) likely to give rise to impacts on the Natura 2000 site At all times compliance with the emission limit values for emissions enforced by the EPA and the Planning Authority will be met, therefore no impact, significant or otherwise, to any Natura 2000 site is anticipated. Those elements covered by the application for a review of the Industrial Emissions licence (P0738-01)(previously Integrated Pollution Prevention & Control Licence (P0738-01) in relation to the operation and design of the Terminal that are relevant, whether taken alone or cumulatively with other proposed development, in the context of the European sites are:

• Discharges to water: � Treated produced water

Produced water is a by-product of natural gas production. During the operation of the Terminal, the produced water will be arriving into the plant with the incoming gas stream, and it will be extracted at several points throughout the plant and treated by the produced water treatment system before being discharged to sea. The treated produced water will be discharged into the Atlantic Ocean at the Corrib Field manifold in a water depth of 350 m, a change from the originally proposed coastal discharge point 2km off Erris Head at a water depth of 65m. A biocide will be injected into the treated produced water stream to prevent fouling within the umbilical core. It will breakdown rapidly through hydrolysis and biodegradation. By the time the produced water is discharged at the subsea location at the Corrib Field, the active concentration of the biocide will have reduced to approximately 100 to 200 ppm, and rapid dilution will reduce the concentration down to around 1-2 ppm within 5 m of the

8 EC (2001) Assessment of plans and projects significantly affecting Natura 2000 sites Methodological guidance on the

provisions of Article 6(3) and (4) of the Habitats Directive 92/43/EEC European Commission.

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discharge location. Dispersal will be relatively rapid and complete, and as such the overall environmental impacts associated with the addition of biocide to the produced water discharge stream are considered negligible. No impacts to water quality in the area of the Corrib Field resulting from the discharge.

� Treated surface water

Rainwater falling on the Terminal process areas (areas where there is a risk of hydrocarbon contamination) will be collected in the open drain sump and treated in the potentially contaminated surface water system (oily water system). The treated produced water and treated surface water (oily water) will be segregated, and only the treated surface water will be discharged via the outfall 2km off Erris Head approximately 12.7km from the landfall. The treated produced water will be discharged as described above. The onshore section of the pipeline and associated outfall pipeline and umbilical will not be available at the time Back Feed Gas (BFG) commissioning is scheduled to commence. Therefore, during this transitional phase and until the outfall pipeline is fully connected, it is proposed that the treated surface water from the process areas and tankeraccess roads is routed to the settlement ponds and local ditch instead of the outfall off Erris Head. As soon as the outfall pipe is available, the discharge will be routed back to the permitted outfall discharge point (SW1). (See Section 2 of the Terminal Supplementary Update Report 2014)

� Storm water: increase to Suspended Solids Emission Limit Value (SSELV)) Uncontaminated Surface Water (or “storm water”) is runoff from the Terminal’s non-process areas and roofs, but excludes bunded areas, which drain to the potentially contaminated surface water system. The storm water is collected in the perimeter surface water drains and is routed via an Emergency Holding Tank (EHT) to the settlement ponds located in the south-western corner of the site. Discharge from the settlement ponds is commingled through a discharge channel designed to permit flow proportional sampling, after which the runoff enters the local peat ditch system and ultimately the drainage ditch that runs alongside the R314 road to the southwest of the Terminal and thence into the Carrowmore Lake catchment. It is proposed to increase the suspended solids limit from 5mg/l to 30mg/l in this discharge stream.9 It is considered that an increase of the suspended solids concentration to 30mg/l, associated with periods of heavy rainfall, will not give rise to any additional impact over that which has been experienced during the construction phase of the Terminal and which has been determined to not have a significant impact on the Bellanaboy River or Carrowmore Lake. The suspended solids limit imposed by the Planning Authority for the construction phase of the project is 35mg/l. As the proposed limit is less than that already imposed by Mayo County Council, and owing to the measures in place to control the quality of surface water leaving the site, no changes to water quality in Carrowmore Lake are anticipated, neither during the remainder of construction nor during operation.

• Emissions to atmosphere (NOx Reduction - using Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR)) The maximum project contribution is 0.2µg/m3 and the maximum total concentration (including the highest possible background that might be considered representative) is 12µg/m3 which is considerably below the threshold required for the protection of sensitive ecosystems - the applicable NOx annual average air quality standard for the protection of sensitive ecosystems being 30µg/m3.

• Noise emissions The noise control limits under which the Terminal has been designed and constructed to operate are intended to protect the amenity of the human receptors found in relatively close proximity to the site. These limits, relating to receptor location levels for daytime and night-time operation respectively, are: � Daytime (07:00 - 23:00) 45dB LAeq,1hour

9 This 5mg/l limit was provided for in the conditions in Licence P0738-01.

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� Night-time (23:00 - 07:00) 35dB LAeq,15mins

With receptor locations situated close to the Terminal site boundary, noise emissions levels will be controlled to these values within a short distance of the Terminal footprint itself.

• Light emissions The requirement for lighting during the operation of the Terminal remains as stated in the 2003 EIS and assessed at that time. A Light Emissions Management Plan as per Section 17, Table 17.2, of the 2003 Terminal EIS will be implemented once the plant reaches steady state operations. There is no change in light emissions from that assessed in the 2003 Terminal EIS.

3.1.2 Description of any likely direct, indirect or secondary impacts of the project (either alone or in combination with other plans or projects) on the Natura 2000 site

a. Size and scale The total site area occupied by the Terminal is 160ha. Operations will be confined to the Terminal footprint which occupies 13.05 ha.

b. Land-take There will be no landtake within any Natura 2000 site.

c. Distance from the Natura 2000 site or key features of the site Distances from European sites in the Natura 2000 network are shown in Table 1 of the NIS, the nearest to the Terminal being:, Carrowmore Lake Complex SAC (1.3km), Glenamoy Bog Complex SAC (1.8km), Slieve Fyagh Bog SAC (1.8), Blacksod Bay/Broadhaven SPA (1.9km), Carrowmore Lake SPA (2.9 km)

d. Resource requirements (water abstraction etc.) No water abstraction from the Natura 2000 sites will be undertaken, nor will there be any other resource requirements from any European site.

e. Emissions (disposal to land, water or air) The Terminal will continue to comply with the emission limits currently enforced by Mayo County Council and once the terminal is in operation, it will be complying with those set by the Industrial Emissions licence, consequently there should not be an additional impact as a result of the proposed changes.

f. Excavation requirements No excavations will be undertaken in any Natura 2000 site.

g. Transportation requirements There will be no requirement for transportation within any Natura site.

h. Duration of construction, operation, decommissioning, etc. Construction

• No impact is anticipated to any European site when considered in combination with the remainder of construction works of the Terminal.

• Operation No impact is anticipated to any European site when considered in combination with the operation of the Terminal, including during the transitional phase for Back Feed Gas (BFG). Decommissioning Decommissioning will be carried out in accordance with an agreed Decommissioning Plan for the wider site with EPA in line with the requirements of the Industrial Emissions Licence (P0738-01)(previously Integrated Pollution Prevention & Control Licence (P0738-01. Part of this plan will include meeting Industrial Emissions Licence (P0738-01) emission values for air and surface water. Compliance with these stringent limits will be maintained at all times therefore no likely significant impact to any European site or to the Natura 2000 network is anticipated.

3.1.3 Description of any likely changes to the site No changes to the habitat and species of the Natura 2000 sites are anticipated, in respect of the following, as a result of the remainder of construction, site reinstatement activities, the transitional arrangements for BFG and the operation of the Terminal:

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• Reduction of habitat area: • Disturbance to key species: • Habitat or species fragmentation: • Reduction in species density: • Changes in key indicators of conservation value (water quality etc.) • Climate change

As described previously at Section 3.1.1, owing to the stringent emission limits values imposed on the quality of surface water leaving the site, no changes to water quality in Carrowmore Lake are anticipated, during the remaining construction works and operation. There is no potential for change in the key elements of any European site as a result of the discharge at sea of treated produced water and treated surface water. Similarly, the levels of emission to atmosphere will be far below the impact threshold in relation to sensitive ecosystems. Given the distances from the Terminal to any of the European sites there is no potential for disturbance to key species as a result of noise and light emissions. 3.1.4 Description of any likely impacts on the Natura 2000 sites as a whole

• Interference with the key relationships that define the structure and function of the sites

No interference with the key relationships that define the structure and function of the European sites will ensue as a result of the proposed changes. In addition it should be noted that the habitats and species for which the European sites (Carrowmore Lake Complex SAC and Carrowmore Lake SPA) have been designated are terrestrial and would therefore not be subject to impact in the unlikely event that a sediment run-off incident during extreme rainfall conditions should occur.

3.1.5 Provision of indicators of significance as a result of the identification of effects set out above

• Loss: no habitat or species loss is anticipated • Fragmentation: no fragmentation will result from the proposed works • Disruption: no disruption to habitat and/or species for which the European sites have been

selected is anticipated as a result of the proposed works. • Disturbance: no disturbance to habitats and species is anticipated. • Change to key elements of the site (e.g. water quality etc.): no change to key elements of any

European site, including their structure and function, is anticipated as a result of the proposed works.

3.1.6 Description of those elements of the project or plan, or combination of elements, where the impacts are likely to be significant or where the scale or magnitude of impacts is not known The assessment of the criteria, as set out in this screening matrix and the NIS (to which this screening matrix is appended), show that the remainder of the works for, and the operation of, the Terminal will not impact on the key elements of the European sites in the vicinity of the Terminal, nor indeed of any other European site. 3.2 CONCLUSIONS It can be objectively concluded that there are not likely to be any significant effects on European sites in the Natura 2000 network. No European site will be subject to direct or indirect impact as a result of the proposed changes covered in this review application. Having examined the criteria set out in the EU Guidance documentation for screening, the assessment has shown that neither the habitats and species for which the European sites in the vicinity of the Terminal have been selected, nor their conservation objectives or key elements of structure and function, will be affected by the changes proposed in this review application, either when taken alone or in combination with other plans or projects discussed at Section 5.5 above.

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The remaining construction works and operation of the Terminal will be carried out in accordance with the strict environmental procedures currently in place on the site. At all times compliance with the emission limit values for surface water and atmosphere as enforced by the EPA and Mayo County Council will be met, therefore no impact to any European site is anticipated. Furthermore, no impact, indirect or otherwise, will affect European sites in the wider locality. Therefore, in conclusion, taking account of the best scientific knowledge and the conservation objectives of each European Site, it can be objectively determined that the operation of the Terminal either individually or when taken in combination with other plans or projects, is not likely to have a significant effect on any European Site.

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Documents

Appendix A Natura Impact Statement8 Distances from the Oweninny wind farm to the European sites 9 Distances from the Belmullet Wave Energy Test Site to the European sites For inspection