At the beginning of 2024, the National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) introduced the voluntary reporting of activities carried out under the General Wild Bird Declaration, which operates as a derogation under the EU Birds Directive.

This voluntary reporting requirement will continue for 2025, and Countryside Alliance Ireland is encouraging all members and affiliated clubs in the Republic of Ireland to ensure that returns are submitted by 31 January 2026 for any activity carried out under the declaration during 2025.

Ireland has a legal obligation under EU law to collect data on the harvesting of bird species conducted under derogation. To fulfil this obligation, the NPWS is asking individuals who undertake activities under the General Wild Bird Declaration to complete an annual return, outlining details of the species and the number of birds affected.

The returns form can be completed electronically and emailed to wildlife.reports@npws.gov.ie or printed and posted—postal details are included on the form itself. For members’ convenience, a copy of the form is attached here.

Countryside Alliance Ireland encourages all those operating under the General Wild Bird Declaration to take part in this voluntary reporting process, helping to ensure that Ireland continues to meet its obligations under EU law while supporting sustainable wildlife management practices.