OPW: Office of Public Works
Oifig na nOibreacha Poiblí
Strategic Environmental Assessments (SEA's)
Information notes on Strategic Environmental Assessments (SEAs)
The EPA are the designated body in relation to Strategic Environmental Assessment. The following extract from the EPA web site describes the process involved
"Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA) is the process by which environmental considerations are required to be fully integrated into the preparation and adoption of plans and programmes. The objective of the SEA process is to provide for a high level of protection of the environment and to contribute to the integration of environmental considerations into the preparation and adoption of specified plans and programmes with a view to promoting sustainable development.
The steps involved in the environmental assessment are:
- The preparation of an environmental report
- The carrying out of consultations
- The integration of environmental considerations
- The publication of information on the decision
In addition, the significant environmental effects of the implementation of plans/programmes are required to be monitored."
Eleven sectors are specified in the legislation where competent authorities must subject specific plans and programmes, which are likely to have significant effects on the environment, to an environmental assessment.
Under European Union Directives, consultations must take place with relevant authorities, relevant bodies, local-interest groups and the general public in the preparation of a Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA) for Flood Risk Assessment Management Studies.
In certain cases OPW is required to carry out an SEA for plans or programmes. The decision-making body (OPW) must take account of responses in the consultation stage and publish a Statement indicating how those responses were taken into account.