The document provides an update on the activities of ELIG (Environmental Law Implementation Group) in January 2016. It summarizes: 1) ELIG provided further training to environmental NGO representatives on the Hen Harrier Threat Response Plan and conceptual training to Pillar Representatives on environmental impact assessments, strategic environmental assessments, and Birds and Habitats Directives. 2) ELIG supported preparation and briefings for DG ENVI/EU Commission meetings, submitted concerns to Irish Water regarding a water supply project, and met with government departments regarding environmental legislation progress. 3) ELIG attended conferences and meetings on topics such as wildlife crime, the EU-US trade agreement (TTIP), and provided presentations

1. ELIG Update: Jan 2016
 ELIG Training Initiatives & Capacity Building:
 Further Bespoke training for eNGO Reps on the Hen Harrier Threat Response Plan
 Pillar Reps : Conceptual level training on EIA, SEA and Habitats & Birds Directives
ELIG meeting’s / compliance issues
DG ENVI/EU Commission’s Package Meeting
 supported preparation & briefings
• Submissions to Irish Water on Legal concerns re Shannon Water Supply Project
subsequent meeting on Water Supply Project
• Legal submission to NPWS on Hen Harrier designation issue
• Meeting with DECLG re progress of Aarhus Bill
• Meeting with DECLG and input into submission on new Peat Regulations
• Liaison with DECLG & Commission re major A2J issues in Irish High Court cases
• Preparation of detailed submission on A2J issues in Ireland as of Dec 2015
• Development of work plan with BWI on major Birds Directive and Habitats Directive
obligations and compliance proposals
EP member queries/support: ( Some examples in addition to the above )
• Presentation to Working Group Convenors re practicalities of engaging with ELIG
• Drafted content ( bar definition on Fracking) for prohibition on fracking Bill which passed
1st stage in the Dáil
• StarWars filming on Skellig Michael – Appropriate Assessment & other issues
• Support to a number of Groups requested by members re Aquaculture issues and how to
A2J and escalation channels.
• Support on a range of AIE requests, reviews and appeals on AIE decisions for various
groups on a wide range of issues
• EIA issues in respect of Killybegs plant appeal, and preliminary decision issues
• Drafted input for EMFF Monitoring Committee reps on legal issues with EMFF OP and
Aquaculture plan given consultation obligations for letter to Commission
Attended/Participation:
• EEB AGM and annual conference and Board Meeting and associated prep and liaison,
Roundhall law conference Wildlife Crime Conference
TTIP:
Prepared and delivered presentations on TTIP at major Trade Union information event,
participated in strategy sessions for TTIP information network – ongoing input and liaison
with EEB on TTIP developments