European Union (Environmental Impact Assessment) (Arterial Drainage) Regulations 2012 (S.I. No. 469 of 2012).

These Regulations amend the Arterial Drainage Act 1945 so as to give effect to Directive 2011/92/EU of the European Parliament and of the Council on the assessment of the effects of certain public and private projects on the environment as regards flood risk management schemes. Environmental impact assessment shall be carried out before approval is given to a proposed arterial drainage scheme likely to have significant effects on the environment by virtue of, among other things, its nature, size or location. Assessment of environmental effects shall include effects on flora and fauna, soil, water, air, climate and the landscape. Where the Minister decides to confirm a proposed drainage scheme, s(he) may attach such conditions to the confirmation as he considers necessary, to avoid, reduce and, if possible, offset the major adverse effects of the proposed drainage scheme.