To ask the Minister for Infrastructure what plans he has to develop a regional Geographic Information System map to show the locations of all (i) Tree Preservation Orders; and (ii) conservation areas.

There is a requirement under the 2011 Act for all councils to keep registers containing information in relation to the Tree Preservation Orders (TPOs) within their council areas. I am encouraged to hear that the majority of Councils have created interactive Geographic Information System (GIS) maps which display the locations of TPOs within their council areas and some also detail conservation areas.

I believe it is important to consider the protection of trees and as part of that seek to encourage greater openness and transparency through increased electronic mapping of TPOs and Conservation Areas and provision of online access to TPO registers.

My Department will consider this matter and where appropriate seek to engage and work with Councils to ensure that necessary statutory obligations for the protection of trees under relevant planning legislation, environmental directives and regulations are understood and therefore fully met.