Restoration of Offaly wetlands to be focus of information meeting this week

NEW research by Tóchar Midlands Wetland Restoration gives fresh insights into how people in Ireland interact with, understand and value wetlands at a time when investment is underway to restore these vital landscapes.

Research reveals that people across Ireland place a strong value on wetlands as part of the country’s natural and cultural heritage, with most believing it is important to pass knowledge and appreciation of these landscapes on to younger generations.

An information meeting will be held in Birr this week to highlight the ecological and societal benefits of fen restoration. It will be held in The County Arms on Thursday February 26^th.

Sites being discussed at this information evening include: Lisnagree Fen, Lough Nahinch pNHA (Tipperary), Ballaghnoher, Annaghmore Lough Fen (Offaly) pNHA, Mannin, Clonaslee Eskers & Derry Bog, Annaghmore Lough Fen (Offaly), Island Fen (SAC), Lisduff Fen (SAC), Killaun, Derrinlough Bog NHA.

Tóchar Midlands Wetland Restoration is one of the largest restoration projects currently underway. It is a three-year, €12 million wetlands restoration project co-funded by the Government of Ireland and the European Union through the EU Just Transition Fund Programme. The project is managed by the National Parks and Wildlife Service within the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage.

The research, carried out by Red C on behalf of Tóchar Midlands Wetland Restoration, explores public behaviours, attitudes and awareness in relation to wetlands. It shows that almost half of Irish adults visit wetlands at least once a year, with recreation such as walking, birdwatching and spending time in nature being the main reason for visiting.

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Compared with previous research carried out in November 2024, patterns of visitation and use remain broadly stable, indicating that wetlands are a valued part of how people across Ireland engage with the outdoors. A clear majority of respondents agree that wetlands are important for protecting biodiversity, supporting livelihoods, storing carbon and preserving Ireland’s cultural heritage. Agreement with these statements remains consistently high compared with 2024, underscoring strong public support for the role wetlands play in addressing climate and environmental challenges.

While awareness of wetland restoration projects is increasing nationally, the findings also highlight the importance of continued local engagement and accessible information, particularly in areas where restoration work is underway. The upcoming Public Information Evenings are designed to support that engagement, offering people the opportunity to learn more about fen restoration and to discuss what it means for their local landscapes.

Commenting on the research and the upcoming Public Information Evenings, Minister of State for Nature, Heritage and Biodiversity Christopher O’Sullivan TD said: “I’m not surprised at these survey results – wetlands are magical places, with huge benefits for people and for nature. The public understand this – especially the people of the Midlands for whom wetlands are deeply interconnected with culture, tradition and local identity. The Tóchar Project is doing fantastic work through engagement and collaboration with communities, and these Public Information Evenings are an ideal way for people to find out about what’s happening, why, and how to get involved. Shared stewardship is at the heart of successful nature restoration in Ireland and I’d encourage anybody with an interest to get down to one of the events.”

Fens are a rare and distinctive type of peatland that are fed by groundwater rather than rainfall. Their waterlogged conditions allow peat to form slowly, supporting specialised plant and animal species while also helping to filter water and contribute to more resilient local environments. Many fen sites across the Midlands have been damaged over time, and restoration work is now taking place to help these important wetlands recover.

Commenting ahead of the events, Tóchar Midlands Wetland Restoration Project Manager Shirley Clerkin said the evenings are about building understanding and connection at a local level: “This research shows that people across Ireland already recognise the value of wetlands and feel a strong sense of responsibility to protect them for future generations. The Public Information Evenings allow us to bring insights into a local setting, to explain what fen restoration involves and to have open, practical conversations with the communities closest to these sites. Restoring wetlands is not just about ecology. It’s about working with people, listening to local perspectives and ensuring these landscapes continue to support nature, climate resilience and community wellbeing into the future.”

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These information sessions will highlight the ecological and societal benefits of fen restoration, including improved water quality and carbon storage, and explain some financial incentives available for restoration initiatives along with opportunities for questions and discussion. The events are open to landowners, farmers, community groups, local organisations and anyone with an interest in wetlands and the future of the Midlands.

The full programme of Public Information Evenings is as follows:

• Thursday, February 26th – County Arms Hotel, Birr, Co. Offaly.

• Tuesday, March 3^rd – Percy French Hotel, Strokestown, Co. Roscommon.

• Wednesday, March 4th – Greville Arms Hotel, Mullingar, Co. Westmeath.

For further information on the Public Information Evenings and to register to attend the events, visit www.tocharwetlands.ie. Or follow them on Instagram @wetlandsrestoration or Facebook and LinkedIn Tóchar Wetlands Restoration.

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