Floral Protection Order 1999

Our rarest species  are protected under section 21 of the 1976 Wildlife Act. The current list of protected species is set out in the Flora (Protection) Order, 1999 which supercedes orders made in 1980 and 1987. As well as flowering plants and ferns, it includes for the first time a number of mosses, liverworts, lichens and algae.

It is illegal to cut, uproot or damage the listed species in any way, or to offer them for sale. This prohibition extends to the taking or sale of seed. In addition, it is illegal to alter, damage or interfere in any way with their habitats. This protection applies wherever the plants are found and is not confined to sites designated for nature conservation. If you have a special requirement to take specimens of these plants, or to interfere or alter their habitat you can apply for a licence. Any major change in existing land-use (e.g. a change from pasture to arable, or a change in fertiliser regime would be covered by this provision.

Further Information from natureconservation@environ.ie