Local public meetings to take place on fen restorations

Communities across the Midlands are being invited to attend Public Meetings in the coming weeks focused on reviving degraded, nutrient-rich, groundwater-fed wetlands (fen restoration).

In Westmeath, the meetings will take place in the Radisson Blue Hotel, Athlone on Tuesday, February 24, and in the Greville Arms Hotel, Mullingar on Wednesday, March 4. Further events will be held at the County Arms, Birr, Co, Offaly on Thursday, February 26 and the Percy French Hotel, Strokestown, Co. Roscommon on Tuesday, March 3. The Killeshin Hotel in Portlaoise, Co. Laois will also host a meeting on Monday, February 23. Registration commences each evening at 7.15pm with the sessions beginning at 7.30pm.

The meetings will come after new research was carried out by Tóchar Midlands Wetland Restoration to give 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.

According to Tóchar, the research revealed 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.

The research, carried out by Red C on behalf of Tóchar, explored public behaviours, attitudes and awareness in relation to wetlands, and showed 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.

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 agreed that wetlands are important for protecting biodiversity, supporting livelihoods, storing carbon and preserving Ireland’s cultural heritage. Agreement with these statements remained consistently high compared with 2024, underscoring strong public support for the role wetlands play in addressing climate and environmental challenges.

Tóchar said that 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.

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 & Wildlife Service within the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage.

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.

“The research shows that people 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.”

The Minister of State for Nature, Heritage & Biodiversity, Christopher O’Sullivan TD said: “I’m not surprised at the survey results. Wetlands are magical places, with huge benefits for people and 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 and I would encourage anybody with an interest to get down to one of the events.”

The information sessions are designed to highlight the ecological and societal benefits of fen restoration, including improved water quality and carbon storage, and to 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.

Interested parties can register for any of the information sessions by phoning 01 5393160.

Registration commences each evening at 7.15pm with the sessions beginning at 7.30pm.