Under the terms of the EU Birds Directive, all EU member States, including Ireland, are bound to take measures to protect all wild birds and their habitats. The Directive allows member States to make derogations from its protective measures where certain wild bird species covered by the declaration are causing damage to crops, livestock and fauna or represent a threat to public health or to air safety. Further details can be obtained on the NPWS website.

http://www.npws.ie/legislationandconventions/irishlaw/eubirdsdirectivederogations/

As managers of Wildlife we need to ensure we keep abreast of current legislation relating to predator control as it pertains to our conservation efforts.