This one-day course will examine the EIA process, including EIAR review, mandatory assessment criteria, public participation and the identification of projects subject to EIA requirements. In the second half of the day, we will look at AA procedures, screening, and mitigation measures, (including comparisons with EIA, and the distinction between mitigation & compensation measures) with a focus on key concepts like 'adverse effects' and 'reasonable scientific doubt.'

By the end of this course, you will have gained a comprehensive understanding of EIA and AA processes, as well as crucial relevant case law in this area. This is a must attend for anyone looking to stay up to date in this ever-changing area.

Course Content

EIA Section

• EIAR Review Process
• Coyne v An Bord Pleanála [2023]
• Requirements of the EIA Directive
• EU Guidelines
• Preliminary Screening
• What is a “Project” for purposes of EIA?
• Mandatory Assessment v Case by Case basis
• Criteria to be Considered
• Annex 1 -Specific projects for which an EIA is mandatory
• Annex II Projects
• What information should be provided in an EIAR?
• Mitigation measures
• Project Splitting (Case law examples)
• Cumulative v Indirect Effects – Identifying the scope of the entirety of the project
• Public Participation

AA Section

• Relevant Guidance on AA
• Appropriate Assessment Flow Chart
• Screening for AA (including caselaw)
• Mitigation measures at AA Screening (including case law)
• Mitigation Measures:
  • Comparison with EIA
  • Mitigation Measures versus Compensation Measures
• Appropriate Assessment Procedure –Stage 2
• “Adverse Effects” on the Integrity of a European Site
• Reasonable Scientific Doubt (including case law)
• Imperative Reasons of Overriding Public Interest (“IROPI”)
• Strict Protection and Derogation Licences

Who Should Attend?

Essentially, anyone involved in land development, infrastructure projects, or policy-making processes where Environmental Impact Assessment and Appropriate Assessment are required, would find huge value in this training course.

Certification

On completion of this one-day training course, you will receive your Certificate of Attendance. Please note certificates are issued at the close of the training course to participants on completion of the course.

This course may qualify for CPD points. Please check directly with your association or awarding body to see how many points they will award.

Cost

An ‘Early Bird’ discounted rate of €495 is currently available. This training course normal rate is €595. Places are limited and are allocated on a first come first served basis. PLEASE NOTE THE EARLY BIRD RATE CLOSES 3 WEEKS PRIOR TO COURSE DATE. The course cost includes all course documentation and Certificate of Attendance.