The restructuring of the National Biodiversity Data Centre (NBDC) will strengthen Ireland's ability to confront biodiversity challenges, according to the Minister of State at the Department of Housing Malcolm Noonan.

As of Tuesday 13 December, the NBDC will be a company limited by guarantee

This, Noonan said, will ensure it's resourced to better support Ireland’s efforts to reverse biodiversity loss while also entering a new era of restoration.

The new company is subject to oversight by the Heritage Council and replaces the previous structure of a contract for services.

"We’re hearing international calls for countries to ensure that biodiversity data is available and accessible to decision-makers, practitioners and the public.

“This is why today’s announcement of the establishment of the NBDC as a company limited by guarantee (CLG) is so significant, in that it will be empowered and resourced to better support Ireland’s collective national effort to reverse biodiversity loss as we embark on a new era of restoration,” he said.

Appointment

Former Secretary General of the Department of the Environment, John McCarthy has accepted the role of inaugural chair of the board of directors.

"His public service experience will be invaluable in establishing the company within the heritage infrastructure.

"I also want to commend the determination of Martina Moloney and Virginia Teehan, chair and CEO of the Heritage Council, and Niall O’Donnchu, director of the National Parks and Wildlife Service, whose work has been central to the establishment of the NBDC CLG," Noonan said.

Speaking about his appointment, John McCarthy said: “I look forward to working with my fellow directors and with all colleagues in the NBDC to tackle head on the challenges that await.

"This is an exciting time for the NBDC and I am honoured to be able to play my part.

"The restructuring will enable the acceleration of our biodiversity recovery and we will work with a range of partners to fulfil our objectives," he added.