€7 Million for Coastal Biodiversity
On 16 October 2025, Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine Martin Heydon TD, alongside Minister of State for Nature, Heritage and Biodiversity Christopher O’Sullivan TD, announced funding for the Arable Coast Environment (ACE) EIP. The project, led by SECAD Partnership CLG, will focus on improving habitats for wildlife along the coastline from South Cork to Wexford.
The €7 million allocation will cover both administration costs and direct payments to participating farmers, supporting practical measures that balance farming with biodiversity protection.
Protecting Iconic Farmland Species
The ACE project will target the conservation of species such as the Hen Harrier, Yellowhammer, Skylark, and Chough, which depend on healthy farmland ecosystems. Farmers will be encouraged to adopt practices including:
- Leaving winter stubbles to provide food and cover.
- Planting wild bird cover crops.
- Managing habitats around Hen Harrier roost sites.
Minister Heydon described the initiative as a “major step forward” in delivering locally led, collaborative solutions, while Minister O’Sullivan praised the role of farmers and communities in safeguarding Ireland’s natural heritage.
Collaborative and Results‑Based Approach
The project will operate through locally led operational groups, bringing together farmers, ecologists, scientists, and community stakeholders. Its objectives include:
- Securing the long‑term conservation of Hen Harrier roosts.
- Implementing results‑based measures to improve habitats for birds and small mammals.
- Building stronger links between farmers, artisan producers, and local industries.
- Providing government agencies with comprehensive datasets to inform future landscape‑scale conservation.
Part of a Wider EU Strategy
The initiative is co‑funded under the EU’s Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) Strategic Plan 2023–2027, which emphasizes sustainability, food security, and rural vitality. EIP projects are designed to trial innovative, locally tailored solutions that can later be scaled up nationally.
Outlook
Over the next four years, the ACE project is expected to become a flagship model for integrating farming and biodiversity along Ireland’s south‑east coast. By combining financial support with community‑driven innovation, the initiative aims to deliver tangible benefits for farmers, rural communities, and the environment alike.
In summary, the €7 million Arable Coast Environment project represents a landmark investment in sustainable farming, biodiversity protection, and collaborative rural development along Ireland’s coastal farmlands.
Sources: Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine; Agriland; South East Radio Agriland gov.ie South East Radio.
