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Home My WebLink About2557 - F.I. Received Doc.A NLL Mv dKen B Sc Eng 40 Drumdesco, Scotstown, Co Monaghan. H18 C622 087 2641790 1 047 89119 IQ MAC' 202 Reference: Ref; Padraig Sherry Re Planning red; 25/57 Address: At ; Agheracalkill Scotstown Co Monaghan niallpmyles(a gmaiL.com Vat Number: IE 3822368 J 12/5/2026 In reply to your request for additional information please see attached as follows. Cover letter from Paraic Fay detailing replies to conditions 1,2,& 3. One H is detailed on site layout map. One C & J is as per attached letters re dead birds and litter. Condition 4 is as per amended site layout map. Condition 5 is as per site layout map. Condition 6 is per amended floor plans , elevations and sections. Attached 4 x site layout maps 4 x site location maps Amended Manure store x 4 altry unit Floor plans x 4 i ,wspaper notice Site notice. Signed:w_ Niall Mc Kenna B Sc Eng (Agent) Gortnaleck Ballconnell Co.Cavan To whom it may concern: Michael Galligan, located at Gortnaleck, Ballyconnell, Co.Cavan is registered for the purpose of transporting animal by products and processed products in accordance with Article 23 of regulations (EC) No. 1069 of 2009. I undertake to remove all fallen stock from the farm below: Your Faithfully, Michael Galligan. Pauric Sherry Agheracalkill Scotstown Co Monaghan. iichaal Gaiiigatl Cortnaleck Ballyconrie;I Co.Cav�.i1 Mohan & Browne Haulage Ltd Mullindava Smithboro Co. Monaghan Mr. Pauric Sherry Hazelwood Farm Limited Annaclkill Scotstown Co. Monaghan 14/O5/2026 Ref: Transportation of animal by products (Manure) To whom it may concern, I wish to confirm that we are the contracted haulers for Pauric Sherry (Hazelwood Farm Ltd), Scotstown, Co. Monaghan to transport their animal by products (poultry manure) offsite. During the closed land spreading window the farmer has sufficient storage facilities to hold the poultry manure until the spreading window re -opens. All deliveries and records will be recorded and maintained as per S.I. 113 of 2O22 as amended. Our DAFM Contractor registration no is HAC2356. Please find attached our current certificate of registration with DAFM to transport animal by- products. Yours sincerely, Pat Mohan Director An Roinn Talmhaiochta, Bia agus Mara Department of Agriculture. Food and the Marine Certificate of Registration Registration under the European Union (Animal By -Products) Regulations 2014 (S.I. No 187 of 2014) and authorisation to transport animal by-products in accordance with Regulation (EC) No. 1069 of 2009 and Regulation (EU) No. 142 of 2011 Company Mohan & Browne Haulage Ltd Address Mullindava, Smithboro, Co. Monaghan Registration No. HAC2356 Trading Address where Mullinadava, Smithboro, Co. Monaghan receptacles are kept Receptacle Identification MBH (see attached register) Numbers CRO No. Map coordinates Contact details Operator William Browne Title Director Phone (086) 257 1998 Mobile 086) 919 4310 Email browne.doreen @gmail.com Plant Description Section XIII: Other Registered Operators in accordance with Article 23(1) of Regulation (EC) No. 1069 of 2009. ABP/derived product Category 2 animal by-product material as set out in Article 9 of Regulation (EC) No. 1069/2009 Activities TRANS: Transport of ABP and derived products Product MAN U: Unprocessed Manure (Poultry Litter) Remarks This authorisation is subject to the conditions set out in the enclosed document CN28: Conditions and Guidelines for Registered Transporters of Animal By -Products and Derived Products and all other relevant EU and National Legislation. This Certificate of Registration supersedes all other Certificates of Registration issued previously. Valid from 12 October 2021 to 11 October 2026 Dated 12 October 2021watture, Fla Ory� For the Minister of Agriculture, Food and the Marine \e .c NALA L"t_ �� It(l IRELAND Mairead Broderick An Officer Authorised by the said Minister Stamp of Competent Authority The Mews, 23 Farnham Street, Cavan, Co. Cavan Phone: 049-4371447/9 Fax: 049-4371451 E-mail: info@clw.ie Planning Department, Monaghan County Council, 1 Dublin Street, Monaghan, Co. Moinaghan 16"' April 2026 RE: Mr. Padraig Sherry Planning Reference Number 25/57 Dear Sir/Madame I refer to the planning application submitted on behalf of Mr. Padraig Sherry and the subsequent request for further information received from your office, dated 9September last. Please fond detailed below the response to the issues raised; • 1 a — Completed Agricultural (Enclosed). • lb — The existing and proposed bird numbers will be unchanged at 39,995. • 1 c — Contractor letter enclosed (to be submitted under separate cover). • ld — Manure storage, Section 14C of S.I. 588 of 2025 applies as follows; Reduced storage capacity in certain circumstances 14. (1) The capacity of facilities for the storage of livestock manure on a holding may, to such an extent as is justified in the particular circumstances of the holding, be less than the capacity specified in Article 10, 11, 12 or 13, as appropriate, in the case of a holding where— (a) the occupier of the holding has a written contract providing exclusive access to adequate alternative storage capacity located outside the holding, (b) the occupier has a written contract for access to a treatment facility for livestock manure, or (c) the occupier has a written contract for the transfer of the manure to a person registered and permitted under and in accordance with the European Union (Animal By-products Regulations 2014 (S I No. 187 of 2014) and the Transmissible Spongiform Encephalopathies Regulations 2015 (S.I. No. 532 of 2015) to undertake the transport of manure. In any event the proposed development will generate; • 39,995*0.81m3/'000 birds* = 32.4 m3/week. (*as per S.I. 588 of 2025) The proposed manure store will accommodate 367.38m2 * 2.4 = 881.72 m3 of manure = 27 weeks production. (26 weeks storage Required as per S.I. 588 of 2025) Directors: S. Clarke, 0. Leddy B.Agr.Sc., P. Fay B.Agr.Sc. V.A.T. Reg. No. 8277204J • le — Estimated soiled water production = not >40m3 / flock. The Mews, 23 Farnham Street, Cavan, Co. Cavan Phone: 049-4371447/9 Fax: 049-4371451 E-mail: info@clw.ie • 1 f — Soiled water storage capacity = 22.7 m3 (>26 weeks production.) The proposed development will operate on a single cycle every c. 16 months, with stock moved in and out at the end of each cycle. There is no washing of the poultry house during this time. When the house is emptied it is brushed / blown down and removed on the manure belts to the manure store. There will only be limited washing of the poultry house itself. The internal floor of the hous may be washed from front to the back doors of the house. Facilities have been detailed to collect wash water from the concrete apron and direct same to the soiled water storage tank. This tank will also collect any washings form, the manure store. • lg — Please refer to information submitted with agricultural development form confirming capacity to accommodate all soiled Water on applicants landholding. • 1 h — To be submitted under separate cover. • li — A silt trap is to be detailed on the storm water line. • 1 j — To be submitted under separate cover. • 1k— Existing ammonia emissions = 0.315Kg /bird Place per annum. Proposed ammonia emissions = 0.09Kg / bird Place per annum. An additional 0.05 Kg ammonia/bird place is applied for manure storage on the farm resulting in a total of 0.14 Kg/Bird Place/annum Jlosed manure storage shed No BWL 0,030/0,050 Total ammonia emissions per bird place reduced from 0.315 K. to 0.14 kx/bird Place. (All emissipn factors taken from Dutch Ammonia and Livestock farming regulations) Directors: S. Clarke, 0. Leddy B.Agr.Sc., P. Fay B.Agr.Sc. V.A.T. Reg. No. 8277204J 2. Please refer to AA Screening Report enclosed. The Mews, 23 Farnham Street, Cavan, Co. Cavan Phone: 049-4371447/9 Fax: 049-4371451 E-mail: info@clw.ie 3. The proposed development will not facilitate any increase in bird numbers (39,995 as per correspondence to Monaghan Co. Co. 20/09/2010) and is required to facilitate a change in the housing system from Enriched cage to a Barn housing system, to comply with current welfare requirements and consumer demands. The conversion to meet increased welfare requirements will result in a reduction in the stocking numbers in the existing house. The poultry house extension will offset the reduction in stocking density in the existing house to ensure that the current approved bird numbers can be maintained on the farm. The proposed development will not result in any intensification of activities on the farm above that previously approved by Monaghan Co. Co. (39,995 as per correspondence to Monaghan Co. Co. 20/09/2010) . Points 4, 5 and 6 to be addressed under separate cover. Should you have any queries in relation to this, or, require any further information please do not hesitate to contact me at the above number or on 087-6794459. Yours Faithfully, BAgrSc Directors: S. Clarke, 0. Leddy B.Agr.Sc., P. Fay B.Agr.Sc. V.A.T. Reg. No. 8277204J Cf COMHAIRLE CONTAE MHUINEACHAIN MONAGHAN COUNTY COUNCIL Planning Section, County Offices, The Glen, Monaghan H18 YT50 Tel: 047 30532 Fax: 047 76276 E mail: planning@monaghancoco.ie SUPPLEMENTARY PLANNING APPLICATION FORM FOR AGRICULTURAL DEVELOPMENT Application Form AAF For Official Use Application Ref: Date Received: Guidance Notes for completing this form • Please complete in black ink, as appropriate, using block capitals. • Q8 & Q9 - All existing and proposed storage facilities should be included. The type of store (refer to A, B, C, D and E below), the type of waste (refer to 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 and 7 below) and the dimensions and capacity of storage facilities must also be included. • Q11 - List all lands that are owned/leased or controlled by the applicant. Any lands not owned by the applicant should be indicated as such and a written legal agreement or contract submitted to support the application. The information required is similar to the information normally entered on the Area Aid application form. • O12 - In columns "A & B" enter the maximum number of stock that are housed and outwintered currently on farm and in columns "C & D" enter the maximum number of stock that will be housed and outwintered after the completion of the development. • Q17 — Application of soiled water to lands must adhere to Article 18 (5) of the EU ( Good Agricultural Practice for Protection of Waters) Regulations 2017 in relations to quantities and irrigation rates for landspreading soiled waters. • The following information shall be submitted on a site location map (1/2500 scale):- - Land to receive slurry outlined in brown - All dwelling houses within 100 metres of the proposed development marked by the initials D.H with names of occupants if other than applicant - All potable water supplies within 100 metres of the development marked by the initials P.W - All watercourses (drains, streams and ponds) marked by a yellow line; expansive waters such as lakes shaded yellow - All hedgerows outlined by a green line The following information shall be submitted on a site layout plan (1/500 scale):- - All buildings within the farmyard complex existing and proposed - Existing and proposed slurry and effluent holding facilities - Concreted yards and aprons - Storm drainage Section A: General Details 1. Applicant: Mr. Paraic Sherry 2. Location of Development: Agheracalkill, Scotstown, Co. Monaghan 3. Nature of Proposed Works:_permission to extend existing poultry unit, erect a new manure store, connect to storage tanks, reposition meal bins, open new entrance on to public road and all associated site works 4. Distance between development and nearest third party dwelling house: >100 metres 5. Area of farm c. 0.47 hectares/acres* *Delete as appropriate 6. Floor/Footprint area of proposed farm buildings/tanks/stores/yards: c. 601.43 square metres 7. Will any proposed soiled water storage facility be above or below ground? Above Below n N/A 0 n..+.il C,.i,+i.,., %A/ -.c+, nennnir Cortilicor Ctnraao 1=arilitioc Rpinw Type of Waste Organic rtiliser Storage Facility*Organic Type of Farm Wastes Fertiliser ** vLength mCapacity g ( ) Width m ( ) Depth (m) (LxWxD)=m3 Weeks Storage *A) Uncovered Tanks B) Covered I anks C) Koorea slattea Ian KS v)Lungsieaa CJLILL I JLUIC **1) Slurry 2) Farm Yard Manure 3) Poultry Litter 4) Soiled Water 5) Washings 6) Spent Compost 7) Other 9. Detail Proposed Waste Organic Fertiliser Storage Capacity Below: (Existing manure storage tank to be used for oiled water storage forthwith as Poultry manure to be removed from the Type of Waste Organic Fertiliser Storage Facility* Type of waste ** Organic Fertiliser Length (m) Width (m) Depth (m) Capacity (LxWxD)=m a Weeks Storage C (Mass Concrete Tank) 3 Precast 22.72 >26 weeks *A) Uncovered Tanks B) Covered Tanks C) Kootea slattea I anK5 u) uungsteau C) LILLcI JUJI e **1) Slurry 2) Farm Yard Manure 3) Poultry Litter 4) Soiled Water 5) Washings 6) Spent Compost 7) Other 10(a). Has a Nutrient Management Plan been prepared for the holding? Yes x No 10(b). If Yes has a laboratory analysis report of soil fertility been submitted with the application? Yes No x (Soil P index 3 used in accordance with provisions of 5.1. 588 of 2025 as amended) Complete the following sections B and C as appropriate/relevant and sign declaration in Section D at end of this form Section B: Cattle, Sheep and Horses N A II I .....J.. A.. -dl. -.I -.I,. F...- CIS. . C.,roo^lir,n• Townland (in CAPITALS) Owned (o) Rented (r) Land Parcel Identification Number Area in Hectares See Attached Area Aid Maps 9'l n,.+ -.;I C+...,I. Ai..m hc,rc n., C,rrr, Rolnw. Column A -Existing Housed Animals Column B - Existing Outwintered Animals Column C - Proposed Housed Animals Column D - Proposed Outwintered Animals Dairy Cows Suckler Cows Please refer to extract from Applicant N and P statement below which aggregates all bovine livestock on the farm for 2025 to a stocking density expressed in Kg organic N/Ha. Limit as per S.I. 588 of 2025 = 170 Kg organic N/Ha Cattle (18-24 months old) Cattle (12-18 months old) Cattle (6-12 months old) Cattle (0-6 months old) Lowland Ewe Mountain Ewe Lamb finishing Horses Section C: Poultry, Pigs and Mushrooms 1 no+oil Rirrl DI roc RAlnw 1J. Bird Type Existing Bird Numbor Following Development Proposed Total Bird Numbers Following Development Broilers Broiler/Breeders Pullets Layers 39,955 Layers (Enriched Cage) 39,995 Layers (Multi tier Aviary / Barn with weekly manure removal to manure store) Ducks Turkeys Other 15. Washwaters (a) Storage Tank Capacity: 22.72. (b) Nitrogen and Phosphorus content of Washwaters: 1.37 KgN N/A KgP 40 M3/Year produced (c) Destination for washwaters: Own spreadlands() 68.3 Other (Please specify) 16. (a)Nitrogen and Phosphorus content of manure: AS per SI 588 of 2025 kgN/1000 bird places /annum AS per SI 588 of 2025 kgP/1000 birds places /annum Total P(kg) Total N (kg) 17. Own farm stocking rate if applicable: =141Kg Organic N/HA (as per 2025 N and P statement below. 40 M3 soiled water will increase this to c. 141.8 KgN/Ha/yr. 18. Have maps of spread lands within Co. Monaghan for wash water application been submitted with the application? (Maps to be 1:50,000 aerial photography with land parcels outlined in red) Yes No 19(a). If free range unit, has a letter of approval for paddock area from the Department of Agriculture, Food & Marine been submitted? Yes No = 19(b). If No have calculations for stocking rate and details of land suitability been provided? Yes No ❑ 20. Have maps of spread lands for manure / spent compost application within Co. Monaghan been submitted? (Maps to be 1:50,000 aerial photography with land parcels outlined in red) Yes No 21. Has a signed letter of agreement from a registered contractor for the collection of poultry manure / spent compost from this facility been submitted? Yes No ❑ '71 Cnrnnrllnnric fnr Pni iltry Manure / Snent Cmmnnct/Pip Slurry annlication within Co. Monaghan Farmer Name & Address Herd Number Townland Current Stocking Rate Kg/N/Ha Disposal System Used Land Parcel Number Soiled water to be allocated to applicant's own lands as detailed on maps below. ')Q Cinnl ,Joctinntinn fnr Pni iltr , Mnnl Ire / Snent Cmmnnct/ Pia Slurry (lands or facilities outside Co. Monaehanl Farmer Name & Address Facility Name & Address Townland Current Stocking Rate Kg/N/Ha All organic fertiliser moved off site by registered contractor in accordance with S.l. 113 of 2022, as amended. ] ____] _____ __ ___ 24. Is this development within the same poultry production complex or within 100m of an existing poultry production complex? Yes ❑ No 25. Has an application been made for an EPA Integrated Pollution Prevention Control (IPPC) Licence? Yes ❑ No 26. Has a letter from a registered contractor been submitted with the application regarding collection of dead birds? Yes n No ❑ Section D: Declaration I certify that the information given above is correct: ter® Signature: 6AgrSc Name in Capitals: PARAICFAY Date: 16/04/2026 Agent Name: Paraic Fay Enter business ID to search for Search Business ID Name PATRICK MARTIN SHERRY Address ANNACAKILL SCOTSTOWN CO MONAGHAN Post Code H 18 DD34 Derogation N/A Status (2026) Nitroge Phosph Year Land Nph Grassla Grassla Deroga Dairy Period Period Docum n (kg) orus (ha) (N/ha) nd (ha) nd Nph tion Band From To ents (kg) Q (kgN/ha )9 9631 1427 2025 68.3 141 68.3 141 N/A 106 01/01/2031/12/20 View Print Docume An RoiRR Talmhaionhn Nia altos Mara ucparlmem nI A .r,c UIDlre. roll.Ind rhl M icc, For Basic kisser, 5uppnd for sustak,abddy, Nees a/ NaNal Cansirainl Scr,n, and oD,r Area Based 5<bm,e proposes orh Yea. Asl5 Nano: PAIR Cc L'ARTI•154JiR/ Address: NlACA}AL ,',COTSTO'M1 COLSJN4Gl-Vl H19 Wla Herd Nos' 071500' ToeMaodCode: RI_ OI TooNxd Name: AOiiE ACAU.JS Puss 01M B4¢ie Ie c n To+Nrd Code : RIfT i TovMand Name: C43RCA,RTACHCW vPw� rydM Earl. MKbe A I!lli+'a�• IU ,Ise Peso e E.tl Inc IrM11 PIN TYM 50.10)337 0)]'37 534 IOJ ; 0.mc4 cu Iw Irraae 000e used Vlert IT5ae'Y N no, depoped.4005 art 0 neC.a•r. COgy Ciabn1A AR TSNrtllopes ImaUC/ D0.P f UOYdl' Il IaSsn.d repe,DrAYI a nnf II II IIIIII1I III IXIII IIII I R158f00X Pys sS Tlv Des 19 15.13:55 m25 An Rolnn Talmhalorhta, R6 ague Mara tkpannlem nl,\gricultore, Food and thr Marine For Bask Prue„.. Support lot Susta&,a.ity, Areas Al H.Nal Constant 5rhnr and elMr Area Based Sdaa,e laaposes soap Year 2020 N.or PATRICK MMU2TY S4:RR AtlNess: ANIMCVF:LL SC0TSTOAx COSt01tAORN1 NIB CON /lrrd Nos: 01 T., Code: R1543 To.Nad Nara: 5TRPCRNUMYI coosmma !Sa m n,seucu� cu cal Onto Used teas: Fha>ry Al reds dsyaytd abort » n hdres COpc. Ciobe10AW TedvulopOt Imagery Oases rFob2022 11na.M¢H I IIIIII III'II III VIII P.yeatllTvpec 1115.15302025 Annex V, to Articles 4.5.4,¢, 4,1 first and second RaagraRhs, 4J4.i urth and lffthp.apg0RbL d EE G d i LU4, second Rggagtaph, &M, fourth and fifth pmlirA ht and 2,3dhILd.paograph, of this Regulation (housing systems and emission factors) (Future change(s) foreseen as of: 01-04-2026. See the change overview.( Coda Housing system description System Emission factor per animal pl ace Description Number ammonia Smell particulate (kg (ouE/sec) matter NHy/year) (g PM 1ptyear) HE2 Animal category laying hens aged 18 weeks and older, animal category parent animals of laying hens 18 weeks and older HE2.1 Cage housing HE2.1.1 Enriched cages with manure belt aeration OW 0,030 0,35 23 2005.11..1 862.1.2 Colony housing with manure belt aeration OW 0,030 0,35 23 2009.10..7 HE2.2 Ground housing HE2.2.1 Approximately 1/3 litter floor and approximately 2/3 slatted OW 0,402 0,34 84 floor 2001.09..1 602.2.2 With aeration under partially raised slatted floor OW 0,110 0,34 84 2030.21.V1 HE2.2.3 Withmanureaerationvia pipes under hopper OW 0,125 0,34 84 2001.30.V1 HE2.2.4 Vwrrth single tube under hopper on both sides of laying nest OW 0,150 0.34 84 2011.09..1 HE2.2.5 With manure aeration via vertical ventilation chimneys OW 0,150 0,34 84 2011.10..1 HE2.2.6 Two floorswith manure belts undergrids OW 0,068 0,34 84 2004.11.V1 HE2.2.7 With frequent manure and Etter removal OW 0,106 0,34 84 2004.12..1 882.3 Aviary housing E2.3.1 At east 53x5 grid w :n manure Pelt 014 0,090 0,34 65 2004091,1 Proposed Housing Suystem HE2.3.2 45-55% slasand manure beet aeration HE2.3.2.1 Aeration at least 0.2 m3/hour per animal pace OW 0,055 0,34 65 2004.10..1 882.3.2.2 Aeration at least 0.5 m3/hour peranimal place OW 0,042 0,34 65 2004.10.Vi HEZ.3.3 30-35% slats and manure belt aeration 0.7 m3/hour per OW 0,025 0,34 65 animal place 2005.04..1 HE2.3.4 55-60% slats and manure belt aeration 0.7 m3/hour per OW 0,037 0,34 65 animal place 2005.05.V1 HE2.100 other -ious,ng systems 0,34 84 Previously approved to be replaced. Noreen McLoughlin, MSc Environmental Consultant Whitehall Edgeworthstown Co. Longford & (087) 4127248/(043) 6672775 E noreen.mcloughlin@gmail.com APPROPRIATE ASSESSMENT SCREENING REPORT FOR A PROPOSED DEVELOPMENT AT AGHERACALKILL, SCOTSTOWN, CO MONAGHAN Padraig Sherry Paraic Fay CL. W. Environmental Planners Ltd The Mews 23 Farnham Street December 2025 All Maps and Aerial Photography used in this report are reproduced under Tailte Eireann License CYAL5o368269 APPROPRIATE ASSESSMENT SCREENING OF A DEVELOPMENT IN SCOTSTOWN, CO. MONAGHAN TABLE OF CONTENTS I INTRODUCTION 3 1.1 Background................................................................................................................................. 3 1.2 Regulatory Context..................................................................................................................... 3 2 METHODOLOGY 7 2.1 Appropriate Assessment............................................................................................................. 7 2.2 Statement of Competency.......................................................................................................... 9 2.3 Desk Studies & Consultation.......................................................................................................9 2.4 Assessment Methodology........................................................................................................... 9 3 SCREENING 11 3.1 Development Description.......................................................................................................... 11 3.2 Site Location and Surrounding Environment.............................................................................14 3.3 Natura 2000 Sites Identified.......................................................................................................17 3.4 Impact Assessment................................................................................................................... 20 3.5 Finding of No Significant Effects............................................................................................... 23 4 APPROPRIATE ASSESSMENT CONCLUSION 24 Appendix I - EPA Flow Chart (2024)...................................................................................................... 25 M APPROPRIATE ASSESSMENT SCREENING OF A DEVELOPMENT IN SCOTSTOWN, CO. MONAGHAN INTRODUCTION 1.1 BACKGROUND Article 6 of the EU Habitat's Directive (Council Directive 92/43/EEC) requires that all plans and projects be screened for potential impacts upon Special Areas of Conservation (SACs) or Special Protection Areas (SPAs). The aim of this screening process is to establish whether or not a full Appropriate Assessment of the proposed plan or project is necessary. A comprehensive assessment of the potential significant effects of a proposed development at an existing poultry farm in Agheracalkill, Scotstown, Co. Monaghan on designated sites was carried out in December 2025 by Noreen McLoughlin, MSc, MCIEEM of Whitehill Environmental. This assessment allowed areas of potential ecological value and potential ecological constraints associated with this proposed development to be identified and it also enabled potential ecological impacts associated with the proposed development on designated sites to be assessed. It will allow Monaghan County Council, as the competent authority, to issue an Appropriate Assessment determination of the proposed development. This AA screening report followed on from a Request for Further Information that was issued by Monaghan County Council with regards this proposed development (Planning File Reference: 25/57). The location of the proposed development is within the Zone of Influence of sites designated under European Law. As such and in accordance with Article 6(3) ofthe EU Habitat's Directive (Council Directive 92/43/EEC) regarding Appropriate Assessment, this screening exercise for Appropriate Assessment was carried out in order to identify whether any significant impacts on designated sites are likely. 1.2 REGULATORY CONTEXT RELEVANT LEGISLATION The Birds Directive (Council Directive2009/147/EC) recognises that certain species of birds should be subject to special conservation measures concerning their habitats. The Directive requires that Member States take measures to classify the most suitable areas as Special Protection Areas (SPAs) for the conservation of bird species listed in Annex 1 of the Directive. SPAs are selected for bird species (listed in Annex I of the Birds Directive), that are regularly occurring populations of migratory bird species and the SPA areas are of international importance for these migratory birds. 3 APPROPRIATE ASSESSMENT SCREENING OF A DEVELOPMENT IN SCOTSTOWN, CO. MONAGHAN The EU Habitats Directive (92/43/EEC) requires that Member States designate and ensure that particular protection is given to sites (Special Areas of Conservation) which are made up of or support particular habitats and species listed in annexes to this Directive. Articles 6(3) and 6(4) of this Directive also call for the undertaking of an Appropriate Assessment for plans and projects not directly connected with or necessary to the management of, but which are likely to have a significant effect on any European designated sites (i.e. SACs and SPAs). The Water Framework Directive (WFD) (2000/6o/EC), which came into force in December 2000, establishes a framework for community action in the field of water policy. The WFD was transposed into Irish law by the European Communities (Water Policy) Regulations 2003 (5.1. 722 of 2003). The WFD rationalises and updates existing legislation and provides for water management on the basis of River Basin Districts (RBDs). RBDs are essentially administrative areas for coordinated water management and are comprised of multiple river basins (or catchments), with cross -border basins (i.e. those covering the territory of more than one Member State) assigned to an international RBD. The aim of the WFD is to ensure that waters achieve at least good status by 2027 and that status does not deteriorate in any waters. Appropriate Assessment and the Habitats Directive Directive 92/43/EEC on the Conservation of Natural Habitats and Wild Fauna and Flora —the `Habitats Directive' - provides legal protection for habitats and species of European importance. Article 2 of the Directive requires the maintenance or restoration of habitats and species of European Community interest, at a favourable conservation status. Articles 3 - 9 provide the legislative means to protect habitats and species of Community interest through the establishment and conservation of an EU-wide network of sites known as Natura 2000. Natura 2000 sites are Special Areas of Conservation (SACs) designated under the Habitats Directive and Special Protection Areas (SPAs) designated under the Conservation of Wild Birds Directive (79/409/EEC). Articles 6(3) and 6(4) of the Habitats Directive sets out the decision -making tests for plans or projects affecting Natura 2000 sites. Article 6(3) establishes the requirement for Appropriate Assessment: "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 .A APPROPRIATE ASSESSMENT SCREENING OF A DEVELOPMENT IN SCOTSTOWN, CO. MONAGHAN 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." Article 6(4) deals with the steps that should be taken when it is determined, as a result of appropriate assessment, that a plan/project will adversely affect a European site. Issues dealing with alternative solutions, imperative reasons of overriding public interest and compensatory measures need to be addressed in this case. Article 6(4) states: "If, in spite of a negative assessment of the implications for the site and in the absence of alternative solutions, a plan or project must nevertheless be carried outfor imperative reasons of overriding public interest, including those of a social or economic nature, the Member States shall take all compensatory measures necessary to ensure that the overall coherence of Natura 2000 is protected. It shall inform the Commission of the compensatory measures adopted. Where the site concerned hosts a priority natural habitat type and/or a priority species, the only considerations which may be raised are those relating to human health or public safety, to beneficial consequences of primary importance for the environment or, further to an opinion from the Commission, to other imperative reasons of overriding public interest." The Appropriate Assessment Process The aim of Appropriate Assessment is to assess the implications of a proposal in respect of a designated site's conservation objectives. The `Appropriate Assessment' itself is an assessment which must be carried out by the competent authority which confirms whether the plan or project in combination with other plans and projects will have an adverse impact on the integrity of a European site. Screening for Appropriate Assessment shall be carried out by the competent authority as set out in Section 177U(i) and (2) of the Planning and Development Act 2000 (as amended) as follows: `(i) A screening for appropriate assessment of a draft Land use plan or application for consent for proposed development shall be carried out by the competent authority to assess, in view of best scientific knowledge, if that Land use plan or proposed development, individually or in 5 APPROPRIATE ASSESSMENT SCREENING OF A DEVELOPMENT IN SCOTSTOWN, CO. MONAGHAN combination with another plan or project is likely to have a significant effect on the European site. (2) A competent authority shall carry out a,screening for appropriate assessment under subsection (1) before — (a) a Land use plan is made including, where appropriate, before a decision on appeal in relation to a draft strategic development zone is made, or (b) consent fora proposed development is given.' The competent authority shall determine that an Appropriate Assessment is not required if it can be excluded, that the proposed development, individually or in combination with other plans or project will have a significant effect on a European site. Where the competent authority cannot exclude the potential for a significant effect on a European site, an Appropriate Assessment shall be deemed required. Where an Appropriate Assessment is required, the conclusions of the Appropriate Assessment Report (Natura Impact Statement (NIS)) should enable the competent authority to ascertain whether the plan or proposed development would adversely affect the integrity of the European site. If adverse impacts on the integrityofa European site cannot be avoided, then mitigation measures should be applied during the appropriate assessment process to the point where no adverse impacts on the site remain. Under the terms of the Habitats Directive consent can only be granted for a project if, as a result of the appropriate assessment either (a) it is concluded that the integrity of any European sites will not be adversely affected, or (b) after mitigation, where adverse impacts cannot be excluded, there is shown to be an absence of alternative solutions, and there exists imperative reasons of overriding public interest for the project should go ahead. Section 177(V) of the Planning and Development Act 2000 (as amended) outlines that the competent authority shall carry out the Appropriate Assessment, taking into account the Natura Impact Statement (amongst any other additional or supplemental information). A determination shall then be made by the competent authority in line with the requirements of Article 6(3) of the Habitats Directive as to whether the plan or proposed development would adversely affect the integrity of a European site, prior to consent being given. 6 APPROPRIATE ASSESSMENT SCREENING OF A DEVELOPMENT IN SCOTSTOWN, CO. MONAGHAN 2 METHODOLOGY 2.1 APPROPRIATE ASSESSMENT This Statement of Screening for Appropriate Assessment (Stage 3.) has been prepared with reference to the following: • European Commission (203.8). Managing Natura 2000 Sites: The Provisions of Article 6 of the'Habitats' Directive 92/43/EEC. • European Commission (2023.). 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 (2006). Nature and Biodiversity Cases: Ruling of the European Court of Justice. • European Commission (2007). Clarification of the Concepts of: Alternative Solution, Imperative Reasons of Overriding Public Interest, Compensatory Measures, Overall Coherence, Opinion of the Commission. • Department of Environment, Heritage and Local Government (2009). Appropriate Assessment of Plans and Projects in Ireland: Guidance for Planning Authorities. The EC Guidance sets out a number of principles as to how to approach decision making during the process. The primary one is 'the precautionary principle' which requires that the conservation objectives of Natura 2000 should prevail where there is uncertainty. When considering the precautionary principle, the emphasis for assessment should be on objectively demonstrating with supporting evidence that: • There will be no significant effects on a Natura 2000 site; • There will be no adverse effects on the integrity of a Natura 2000 site; • There is an absence of alternatives to the project or plan that is likely to have an adverse effect to the integrity of a Natura 2000 site; and • There are compensation measures that maintain or enhance the overall coherence of Natura 2000. This translates into a four stage process to assess the impacts, on a designated site or species, of a policy or proposal. The EC Guidance states that "each stage determines whether a further stage in the process is required". Consequently, the Council may not need to proceed through all four stages in undertaking the Appropriate Assessment. 7 APPROPRIATE ASSESSMENT SCREENING OF A DEVELOPMENT IN SCOTSTOWN, CO. MONAGHAN The four -stage process is: Stages: Screening —The process which identifies the likely impacts upon a Natura 2000 site of a project or plan, either alone or in combination with other projects or plans, and considers whether or not these impacts are likely to be significant; Stage 2: Appropriate Assessment —The consideration of the impact on the integrity of the Natura 2000 site of the project or plan, either alone or in combination with other projects or plans, with respect to the site's structure and function and its conservation objectives. Additionally, where there are adverse impacts, an assessment of the potential mitigation of those impacts; Stage 3: Assessment of Alternative Solutions — The process which examines alternative ways of achieving objectives of the project or plan that avoid adverse impacts on the integrity of the Natura 2000 site; Stage 4: Assessment where no alternative solutions exist and where adverse impacts remain — An assessment of the compensatory measures where, in the light of an assessment of imperative reasons of overriding public interest (IROPI), it is deemed that the project or plan should proceed. In complying with the obligations set out in Articles 6(3) and following the guidelines described above, this screening statement has been structured as a stage by stage approach as follows: • Description of the proposed project; • Identification of the Natura 2000 sites close to the proposed development; • Identification and description of any individual and cumulative impacts on the Natura 2000 sites likely to result from the project; • Assessment of the significance of the impacts identified above on site integrity. Exclusion of sites where it can be objectively concluded that there will be no significant effects. 8 APPROPRIATE ASSESSMENT SCREENING OF A DEVELOPMENT IN SCOTSTOWN, CO. MONAGHAN 2.2 STATEMENT OF COMPETENCY This AA Screening reportwas carried out by Noreen McLoughlin, BA, MSc, MCIEEM. Noreen has an honours degree in Zoology and an MSc in Freshwater Ecology from Trinity College, Dublin and she has been a full member of the Chartered Institute of Ecology and Environmental Management for over nineteen years. Noreen has over 21 years' experience as a professional ecologist in Ireland. 2.3 DESK STUDIES & CONSULTATION Information on the site and the area of the proposed development was studied prior to the completion of this statement. The following data sources were accessed in order to complete a thorough examination of potential impacts: • National Parks and Wildlife Service - Aerial photographs and maps of designated sites, information on habitats and species within these sites and information on protected plant or animal species, conservation objectives, site synopses and standard data forms for relevant designated sites. • Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)- Information pertaining to water quality, geology and licensed facilities within the area; • Myplan.ie — Mapped based information; • National Biodiversity Data Centre (NBDC) — Information pertaining to protected plant and animal species within the study area; • CLW Environmental Planners— Site plans, development description and information on potential emissions. • Monaghan County Council — Information on planning history in the area for the assessment of cumulative impacts. 2.4 ASSESSMENT METHODOLOGY The proposed development was assessed to identify its potential ecological impacts and from this, the Zone of Influence (Zol) of the proposed development was defined. Based on the potential impacts and their Zol, the Natura z000 sites potentially at risk from direct, indirect or in -combination impacts were identified. The assessment considered all potential impact sources and pathways connecting the proposed development to Natura 2000 sites, in view of the conservation objectives supporting the favourable conservation condition of the site's Qualifying Interests (Qls) or Special Conservation Interests (SCls). The conservation objectives relating to each Natura z000 site and its QIs/SCIs are cited generally for SACs as "to maintain or restore the favourable conservation condition of the 9 APPROPRIATE ASSESSMENT SCREENING OF A DEVELOPMENT IN SCOTSTOWN, CO. MONAGHAN Annex I habitat(s) and/or Annex II species for which the SAC has been selected", and for SPAs "to maintain or restore the favourable conservation condition of the bird species listed as Special Conservation Interests for this SPA". As defined in the Habitat's Directive, the favourable conservation status of a habitat is achieved when: • Its natural range and area it covers within that range is stable or increasing; • 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; The favourable conservation status of a species is achieved when: • The 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; • The natural range of the species is neither being reduced nor is likely to be reduced for the foreseeable future; • There is, and will probably continue to be, a sufficiently large habitat to maintain its populations on a long-term basis. Where site -specific conservation objectives (SSCOs) have been prepared for a European site, these include a series of specific attributes and targets against which effects on conservation condition, or integrity, can be measured. Where potential significant effects are identified, then these SSCOs should be considered in detail. 20 APPROPRIATE ASSESSMENT SCREENING OF A DEVELOPMENT IN SCOTSTOWN, CO. MONAGHAN 3 SCREENING 3.1 DEVELOPMENT DESCRIPTION In July 2025, Mr Padraig Sherry applied to Monaghan County Council for planning permission for a development at his existing poultry farm in Agheracalkill, Scotstown, Co. Monaghan. Planning permission is being sought here for the following development: To extend an existing poultry unit, erect a new manure store, connect to storage tanks, reposition meal bins, open new entrance on to public road and all associated site works The proposed development will not give rise to any increase in bird numbers on the site. The poultry farm was previously approved to facilitate 39,995 birds. An increased floor area is now required to facilitate the change from an enriched cage housing system to a barn housing system in line with increased animal welfare requirements. An extract from the planning drawings can be seen in Figure i. SITE LAYOUT MAP AGHERACALKILL TD ` SITE LAYOUT MA \/ FOR ADRAIG SHERRY BY I IIALL MC KEIIIIA 1500 SCALE 1 DATE 1011//6/2612 025 SITE BOU SECTIOII AA Figure i — Proposed Site Plan 11 APPROPRIATE ASSESSMENT SCREENING OF A DEVELOPMENT IN SCOTSTOWN, CO. MONAGHAN Construction methods for the new structures will be standard and will follow best practice guidelines at all stages. All structures will be complaint with the recommendations of the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine. The operation of the farm and all its associated activities will be done in accordance with S.I. 588 of 2025. Once operational, the proposed development will not give rise to any increase in numbers, but an increase in welfare requirements means an alteration to cage free housing, thus necessitating additional accommodation (reduced stocking density). The birds will be moved in at approximately 16 weeks old and moved out at end of their lay stage, approximately 56- 6o weeks later. Manure will be removed from the houses to a manure store on a weekly basis. The houses will be cleaned down at the end of each 13 -14 -month cycle. Clean surface water from the site will be directed to a watercourse. S.I. 588 OF 2025 The European Union (Good Agricultural Practice for Protection of Waters) Regulations 2025 provides a basic set of measures to ensure the protection of waters, including drinking water sources, against pollution caused by nitrogen and phosphorus from agricultural sources, with the primary emphasis being on the management of livestock manures and other fertilisers. The purpose of these Regulations is to give effect to Ireland's Nitrates Action Programme. This directive outlines measures that must be followed during the land -spreading of manure. These measures are summarised in the points below. • The amount of livestock manure applied in any year to land on a holding, together with that deposited to land by livestock, shall not exceed an amount containing 170 kg nitrogen per hectare. • The spreading of any organic fertiliser during certain times of the year is prohibited. • Farmers must keep within the overall maximum fertilisation rates for nitrogen and phosphorus. • Farmers must have sufficient storage capacity to meet the minimum requirements of the regulations. • All storage facilities must be kept leak proof and structurally sound. • Records for the movement of fertilisers must be kept. • Chemical fertilisers, livestock manure and other organic fertilisers, effluents and soiled water must be spread as accurately and as evenly as possible. • An upward -facing splash plate or sludge irrigator on a tanker or umbilical system must not be used for the spreading of organic fertiliser or soiled water. 12 APPROPRIATE ASSESSMENT SCREENING OF A DEVELOPMENT IN SCOTSTOWN, CO. MONAGHAN • Chemical fertilisers, livestock manure, soiled water or other organic fertilisers must not be spread when: o The land is waterlogged; o The land is flooded, or it is likely to flood; o The land is frozen, or covered with snow; o Heavy rain is forecast within 48 hours; o The ground slopes steeply and there is a risk of water pollution, when factors such as surface run-off pathways, the presence of land drains, the absence of hedgerows to mitigate surface flow, soil condition and ground cover are taken into account. • Chemical fertilisers must not be spread on land within 2 metres of a surface watercourse. Table i shows the buffer zones for various water bodies (lakes, rivers, wells etc.). Soiled water, effluents, farmyard manures or other organic fertilisers must not be spread inside these buffer zones. Any water supply source providing 1oom3 or more of water per day, or serving Soo or more people zoom (or as little as 3om where a local authority allow) Any water supply source providing iom 3 or more of water per day, or serving 5o people or more loom (or as little as 3om where a local authority allows) Any other water supply for human consumption 25m (or as little as ism where a local authority allows) Lake shoreline or a turlough likely to flood 20m Exposed cavernous or karstified limestones features ism Any surface watercourse where the slope towards the watercourse exceeds io% iom Any other surface waters 5m Table 3 —Requirements for the Application of Fertilisers and Soiled Water as set out in 5.1. 588 of 2025 13 APPROPRIATE ASSESSMENT SCREENING OF A DEVELOPMENT IN SCOTSTOWN, CO. MONAGHAN 3.2 SITE LOCATION AND SURROUNDING ENVIRONMENT The site in question is approximately o.5iha and it is located in a rural area within the townlands of Agheracalkill. Access to the site is via the existing entrance into the farm and this entrance is just south off a local, third-class road. The site is situated i.2km north-west of Scotstown. The main land -use surrounding the application site is agriculture and improved agricultural grassland is the dominant habitat locally and this habitat largely surrounds the site. Other natural habitats represented in the area include areas of semi -improved and wet grasslands, areas of mixed woodland and scrub, along with hedgerows, treelines and watercourses. Site location maps can be seen in Figures 2 and 3 whilst an aerial photograph of the site and its f y ✓ j a 1 r Der ad Re M .I r° I 1� rumiiane `.- Z Aghera [tan bruma% f �. r �. a,^;.:`,. r''�n a f • , ullagh Agh Y A�� 4ah� .. Il1ntl re ,;. Cskih �� \ ` I r Cgpbb%og . n / �� Boughkgel .,rr , - r Illycarndn Drummn ully n :' •° °1N Agheracalkill ti„ rp�•r Slracrunnion Coolkill Wes � rbbsh nn I , Carrac$or �/ arrowhgtla ��' t r1 1 r,• Gold l({Ft . -- �u.H. y gam_ Cr il3 �e Arran Sc tstoVrn" Drummer , Cu ee+rj Gbla English ' Sc i ! �'Cbntoe Drumbomel 1 ,1_ Teravedy f _, a de . caurwg �! D• r! r'' Its Anna gh an Fholda ',\ ' A9h Y Cra•rdgr 104 • _ - • Soulh� eO •ery.-o� � I>°. P Kllly Allan-.'Terr a ru •Allagesh _ •a' • • I. r is u .� u lin fUl t we Figure 2 —Map showing the Location of the Proposed Development Site (Pinned) 14 APPROPRIATE ASSESSMENT SCREENING OF A DEVELOPMENT IN SCOTSTOWN, CO. MONAGHAN Figure 3— Map showing the Location of the Proposed Development Site (Outlined in Red) HABITATS WITHIN THE SITE The application site does not lie within or adjacent to any area that has been designated for nature conservation purposes. The site encompasses an existing poultry farm and the dominant habitat within the farm site currently is buildings and artificial surfaces, i.e., the existing poultry house, access roads and yard. The extension to the existing poultry house will be constructed in an area of improved grassland that lies to the rear of the existing house. WATER FEATURES AND QUALITY The application site lies within the Lough Neagh and Lower Bann Hydrometric Area (O3) and Catchment (O3), and the Blackwater (Monaghan) Sub -Catchment (oso) and Sub -Basin (o1O). There are drainage ditches close to the site and clean surface water from the site will be directed to these local drains. These drains lead to the River Blackwater, which is approximately 5oom south of the site. The EPA have classified the ecological status of the River Blackwater and its tributaries at points close to the application site as being of good ecological status. Under the requirements of the Water Framework Directive, this is satisfactory and this status must be maintained. 15 APPP(1PPIATF ASSESSMENT SCREENING OF A DEVELOPMENT IN SCOTSTOWN, CO. MONAGHAN Figure 4 —Aerial Photograph of the Site (Outlined in Red) and its Surrounding Habitats i6 APPROPRIATE ASSESSMENT SCREENING OF A DEVELOPMENT IN SCOTSTOWN, CO. MONAGHAN 3.3 NATURA 2000 SITES IDENTIFIED In accordance with the guidelines issued by the Department of the Environment and Local Government, a list of Natura 2000 sites within a.5km of the proposed development have been identified and described according to their site synopsis, qualifying interests and conservation objectives. In addition, any other sites further than this, but potentially within its zone of interest were also considered. The zone of impact may be determined by an assessment of the connectivity between the application site and the designated areas by virtue of hydrological connectivity, atmospheric emissions, flight paths, ecological corridors etc. For significant effects to arise, there must be a potential impact facilitated by having a source, i.e., the proposed development and activities arising out of its construction or operation, a receptor, i.e., the European site and its qualifying interests and a subsequent pathway or connectivity between the source and receptor, e.g., a water course. The likelihood for significant effects on the European site will largely depend on the characteristics ofthe source (e.g., nature and scale of the construction works), the characteristics of the existing pathway and the characteristics of the receptor, e.g., the sensitivities of the Qualifying Interests (habitats or species) to changes in water quality. There are five Natura 2000 designated sites (including former European sites in Northern Ireland) within s.5km of the application site. There is one former Natura 2000 site downstream. These designated areas and their closest points to application site are summarised in Table 2 and maps showing their locations relative to the application site are shown in Figures 5 and 6. A full description of these sites can be read on the websites of the National Parks and Wildlife Service (npws.ie) and the Joint Nature Conservation Committee (jncc.defra.gov.uk). Slieve Beagh 3.2km north • Hen Harrier Circus Screened Out — There is no SPA 004167 cyaneus hydrological connectivity between the proposed construction works site and this SPA, therefore significant effects upon this site arising from emissions to water will not arise. The overall emissions from this proposed development will be the same as that previously permitted, therefore significant effects upon this SPA will not arise. Slieve Beagh 7.1km north- • Natural dystrophic Screened Out — There is no SAC UKoo16622 west lakes and ponds hydrological connectivity 17 APPROPRIATE ASSESSMENT SCREENING OF A DEVELOPMENT IN SCOTSTOWN, CO. MONAGHAN • European dry heaths between the proposed construction works site and this SAC, therefore significant effects upon this site arising from emissions to water will not arise. The overall emissions from this proposed development will be the same as that previously permitted, therefore significant effects upon this SAC will not arise. Slieve Beagh- 6.8km north- • Hen Harrier Circus Screened Out — There is no Mullaghafad- west cyaneus hydrological connectivity Lisnaskea between the proposed SPA UK9020302 construction works site and this SPA, therefore significant effects upon this site arising from emissions to water will not arise. The overall emissions from this proposed development will be the same as that previously permitted, therefore significant effects upon this SPA will not arise. Magheraveely Mark 6.2km south- • Hard oligo- Screened Out — There is no Loughs SAC west mesotrophic waters hydrological connectivity UKoo16621 with benthic between the proposed vegetation of Chara construction works site and spp. this SAC, therefore significant • Calcareous fens with effects upon this site arising Cladium mariscus and from emissions to water will species of the Caricion not arise. The overall davallianae emissions from this proposed • Alkaline fens development will be the same • Austropotamobius as that previously permitted, pallipes (White -clawed therefore significant effects Crayfish) upon this SAC will not arise. Kilroosky Lough 13.5km south- • Hard oligo- Screened Out — There is no Cluster SAC 001786 west mesotrophic waters hydrological connectivity with benthic between the proposed vegetation of Chara construction works site and spp, this SAC, therefore significant • Calcareous fens with effects upon this site arising Cladium mariscus and from emissions to water will species of the Caricion not arise. The overall davallianae emissions from this proposed • Alkaline fens development will be the same • Austropotamobius as that previously permitted, pallipes (White -clawed therefore significant effects Crayfish) upon this SAC will not arise. Lough Neagh and Circa 74km • Bewick's swan Cygnus Screened Out — Having Lough Beg SPA downstream via columbianus regards to the extensive UKgo200gl the Ulster • Whooper swan Cygnus hydrological distance, it can Blackwater Cygnus be concluded that there will be • Common tern Sterna no significant effects arising hirundo on this former SPA from the • Great crested grebe construction and operation of Podiceps cristatus the proposed development. • Golden plover Pluvialis apricaria s8 APPROPRIATE ASSESSMENT SCREENING OF A DEVELOPMENT IN SCOTSTOWN, CO. MONAGHAN • Pochard Aythya ferina • Tufted duck Aythya fuligula • Scaup Anas marila • Goldeneye Bucephala clangula Table 2— Natura z000 Sites within i5km of Application Site S �: :� �� L �«lula4� • ( 1 ♦ � '.� Mlamdr �d anAnm. _/ � smlhb«wgh Thee MJe Ilouae 11 Figure 5 -The Application Site (Red Dot) in relation to the Natura 2000 Sites within 15km Figure 6— The Application Site (Red Dot) in relation to the Slieve Beagh SPA 19 APPROPRIATE ASSESSMENT SCREENING OF A DEVELOPMENT IN SCOTSTOWN, CO. MONAGHAN 3.4 IMPACT ASSESSMENT The potential significant effects of the proposed development on the Natura 2000 sites within i5km are considered below. The construction and operation of the proposed development at Agheracalkill will have no significant effects upon the designated sites identified. There are no individual elements of the proposed project that are likely to give rise to negative impacts on these Natura 2000 sites. There will be no impacts upon designated habitats or species arising from the predicted emissions from this facility. There is an adequate distance between the proposed development site and all designated areas to ensure that no direct impacts will occur. There are other agricultural activities ongoing close to the current application site, therefore cumulative impacts arising from the operation of these farms together were considered. All farms, regardless of whether licensed by the EPA or not, are required to operate within the legalisation defined in S.1.588 of 2025 regarding manure storage, minimisation of soiled water and general good agricultural practice, etc. Therefore, cumulative impacts arising from the combined operation of these activities with the proposed operation of the poultry farm at Agheracalkill will be negligible. The land -spreading of the poultry manure produced at the proposed facility has also been considered as part of this process. Records for the distribution and movement of all the manure produced will be kept on site and presented to the Department of Agriculture, Food and Marine if necessary. All organic fertilisers will replace the use of chemical fertiliser; therefore, there will be no overall increase in the amount of nutrients spread. The wash water generated during the maintenance of the facility will be land -spread on the applicant's family lands. Land -spreading will only be done on areas of improved agricultural grasslands. The receipt lands are not adjacent to or connected to any Natura 2000 site. The use of these lands for land -spreading of water will have no impacts upon the integrity or conservation objectives of any Natura 2000 site. All land -spreading will be done in accordance with the Nutrient Management Plan for the farm and in accordance with S.I. 588 of 2025. All farmers that receive the manure from the proposed farm will do so under the European Union (Good Agricultural Practice for the Protection of Waters) Regulations 2025. Upon the receipt of the manure, they will be informed of their obligation under this legalisation. Compliance with these regulations will minimise cumulative impacts as well as any impacts upon water quality. Size and scale: Having regards to the small size and scale of the development in relation to the overall size of the Natura 2000 sites identified, then the likelihood of any direct, indirect or cumulative impacts upon this designated site is low. Land -take: There will be no land -take from any designated site. There will be no interference with the boundaries of any designated site. There will be no loss of any undesignated priority habitats. 20 APPROPRIATE ASSESSMENT SCREENING OF A DEVELOPMENT IN SCOTSTOWN, CO. MONAGHAN Distance from Natura 2000 site or key features of the site: There are five Natura z000 sites within i5km of the application site. The closest site is the Slieve Beagh SPA and this SPA is 3.2km north of the site. In this instance, having regards to the fact that emissions following this development will remain the samd, significant effects upon this site and its Qls will not arise. Resource requirements (water abstraction etc.): No resources will be taken from any Natura 2000 site and there are no resource requirements that will impact upon any designated site. Emissions: There will be no emissions to water from the construction or operation of the proposed development that will lead to any significant effects upon Natura 2000 sites. The site is over 74km upstream of Lough Neagh SPA and Lough Beg SPA. This significant hydrological distance is sufficient to ensure that significant effects upon this site will not arise due to any emissions generated from the construction and operation of this proposed development. For emissions to air, the EPA have recently produced guidance documents for the assessment of impacts of emissions on Natura 2000 sites (See Appendix I - Assessment of the Impact of Ammonia and Nitrogen on Natura 2000 sites from Intensive Agriculture Installations, EPA 2021, updated 2024). This document contains a step-by-step assessment process which allows the applicant to ascertain the level of assessment and information needed when determining potential effects from emissions on Natura 2000 sites. Step 6 of the flow chart (Appendix I) makes a provision for applicants to demonstrate that the emissions from the new installations will result in an overall reduction in emissions from the baseline numbers. As the final emissions from the farm upon completion of the construction and upgrading works will be the same as that previously permitted, detailed atmospheric modelling is not required in this instance and significant effects upon Natura 2000 sites arising from emissions can be ruled out. Excavation requirements: Excavated material from the construction will be used on site. Bare soil will be reseeded straight away where appropriate. Any remaining soil will be disposed of in a responsible manner in a licensed facility away from any designated sites. In -Combination / Cumulative Impacts: The proposed application was considered in combination with other developments or proposed developments in the Agheracalkill / Scotstown areas and the surroundings townlands. There are no past or pending applications that could lead to cumulative impacts upon the Natura 2000 sites when considered in combination with this current application. Any future individual application that has the potential to impact upon a Natura 2000 site will be subjectto Appropriate Assessment as required under Articles 6(3) of the Habitats Directive. As overall ammonia emissions are decreasing, cumulative impacts with other intensive agricultural installations will not arise. Transportation requirements: There will be no additional transportation requirements resulting from the proposed development and associated works that will have any impact upon the Natura 2000 sites identified. Duration of construction, operation, decommissioning etc: Once construction begins, it should be complete within one year. 21 APPROPRIATE ASSESSMENT SCREENING OF A DEVELOPMENT IN SCOTSTOWN, CO. MONAGHAN Reduction of habitat area: The proposed development lies outside the boundaries of the Natura z000 sites identified in Section 3.3. There will be no reduction of designated habitat area or habitats used by any protected bird species. There will be no impacts upon the qualifying interest of any SAC / SPA. Disturbance to key species: There will be no direct disturbance to any species listed in Annex I of the Birds Directive or Annex II of the Habitats Directive. Habitat or species fragmentation: There will be no habitat or species fragmentation within any SAC or SPA. No ecological corridors between the proposed site and any designated area will be damaged or destroyed. Reduction in species density: There will be no reduction in species density. Changes in key indicators of conservation value (water quality etc.): There will be no negative impacts upon surface or ground water quality. There will be no negative impacts upon the water quality in any designated site. Interference with the key relationships that define the structure or function of the site: It is not considered likely that there will be any impacts on the key relationships that define the structure or function of the Natura z000 sites identified. Loss - Estimated percentage of lost area of habitat: None Disruption & disturbance / Fragmentation: None Change to key elements of the site (e.g. water quality etc.): None 22 APPROPRIATE ASSESSMENT SCREENING OF A DEVELOPMENT IN SCOTSTOWN, CO. MONAGHAN 3.5 FINDING OF No SIGNIFICANT EFFECTS Name of project Development at an Existing Farm at Agheracalkill, Scotstown, Co. Monaghan (Extension of Poultry House, No Increase in Stock). Name and location of Natura 2000 site There are five Natura z000 sites within i5km of the application site. The closest site is the Slieve Beagh SPA and this SPA is 3.akm north of the site. In this instance, having regards to the fact that emissions following this development will remain the same, significant effects upon this site and its Qls will not arise. Description of project A Small Scale Agricultural Development Is the project directly connected with or No necessaryto the management of the site? Are there other projects or plans that No together with project being assessed could affect the site? Describe how the project is likely to affect Having regard to the location, nature and scale of the the Natura 2000 site proposed development, it is considered that there is no potential for significant effects either from the proposed development on its own or in combination with other plans and projects. Explain why these effects are not Not applicable as there is no potential for negative impacts considered significant Describe how the project is likely to affect No impacts likely species designated under Annex II of the Habitats Directive. Who carried out the assessment Noreen McLoughlin, MSC, MCIEEM. Consultant Ecologist Sources of data NPWS, EPA, National Biodiversity Data Centre, Monaghan County Council Level of assessment completed Stages Appropriate Assessment Screening Where can the full results of the assessment Full results included be accessed and viewed 23 APPROPRIATE ASSESSMENT SCREENING OF A DEVELOPMENT IN SCOTSTOWN, CO. MONAGHAN 4 APPROPRIATE ASSESSMENT CONCLUSION In accordance with Article 6(3) of the Habitats Directive, the relevant case law, established best practice and the precautionary principle, this AA Screening Report has examined the details of the project in relation to the relevant Natura 2000 sites within i5km of the application site. At this stage of the AA process, it is for the competent authority, i.e., Monaghan County Council, to carry out the screening for AA and to reach one of the following determinations: a) AA of the proposed development is required if it cannot be excluded, on the basis of objective information, that the proposed development, individually or in combination with other plans or projects, will not have a significant effect on any European sites; b) AA of the proposed development is not required if it can be excluded, on the basis of objective information, that the proposed development, individually or in combination with other plans or projects, will not have a significant effect on any European sites. It is of the opinion of the author that an AA of the proposed development is not required as it can be excluded, on the basis of objective information provided in this report, that the proposed development, individually or in combination with other plans or projects, will not have a significant effect on any European sites. Noreen McLoughlin, MSc, MCIEEM. Ecologist. (PI Insurance details available on request) 24 APPROPRIATE ASSESSMENT SCREENING OF A DEVELOPMENT IN SCOTSTOWN, CO. MONAGHAN Appendix I - EPA Flow Chart (2024) APPENDIX 1. FLOWCHART e7 0l. w.thin 500 m n1 .,y Q 1 . Igoto Q'..tt.nd) h. Mbtlgot.d I a►.adfrt<mhdk th, rw,rr,n r,...1 krA ar Woy.v. S..,..di, dr.a,r d rdk,.n•n YES (g. toq.nb S) hmy.d. Wli, N1 kmol Sh+e &4' W. Lioml>t a.j, ri.m. W. rr I,('.4 SPA Ask 7 Igo"Q. t4000) 4L..Uv.q SCAM.n..nwn.lm .nodo owth .o oit:g.lion lhi.o®.t non.b.rd h11�m .1handrentmw,(Pt1,.1.1Nau. YES SCREENED vl.swhn Ph rt+.. nl rdhadln/W.,< nuytA.lrwmk.,r,,.rr 1p..n OUT FOR h dr M krm dr wr.n,n•.,q.r..nn.rw a4 %M AA duiikvclk.am„tt.. rr.1x 5%d d. o .oIn.d Io, n,9m rkp.M.os , .1 tugwnn NO 4 Q � NIS g...un oo.d Uq SCAMn u ,mann„.. • mod• wM t.n,.t.. d,.m.t,r .nd .,rt h,rgh. i.dodod h ft• pxl tmm.M rnUA.trnlP( I..t,M YES Be.lrun 4.., ... U J IgNdarrr. m 6 • rrn.}n dayo.w,• ad h do P( hu,, do w..o sy..... ur x4%ol dr u,ki k.d la. aRmnu W .5%.4 dm mid kl h. ,.o,pn dI .(,nN..., w04 _ Fogowinq d.t.I.d moddrnq u,d >n NIS - SCREENED IN [Q4. FOR AA kdrp«.-n<«vdWOn%id-c YES ita NIS.oqulrod u.ei bod b rr.agm d.w•.lo•t S1bnd to IPA )« Astrsvrrnl OR no Fobon..g dotul.d m.dd.ng .nd o NIS t.I ng Q • .mm�t.lm,o„dn.uon .Ilw u. YES kt.17C 1r,. tl.,ri tl� rvr.I ln.l..dW rtAr.l load h..n .cknrs4 gn.uyigiea lu Ivopan5oawdr. d.o.ve oI iA..aul FAO Sob.dt to tPA0 rmvir.,tn d ControlN....ultn '°'"'Ay14 d,.. vJy y..,r.,.ddrn h..e+,a n.,.a„m,.a,u> w ,..ono -..k nn YES .dw.v oH.rt n dmgr m dr w,.y.,y d dW d.• o,sn..y, n luap.r.lte. „vou,, wd r.. I' ...H. drlanh...n ham us... Iw.r, .,yw.n.lt..I rs dbq .dod-AA..u,wibrk..IMn boa. h.m.o.l.pi.d.4rrn ' No Ivapw,ao 25