All of our datasets available via our web viewers contain detailed metadata which is available and should be considered when interpreting or using our data.

Some individual datasets also contain specific caveats of use and are scale specific, intended for use at local, regional, or national scale assessments only. It is the responsibility of the user to be cognisant of, and take into consideration these limitations.

The publicly available data referenced/presented here, should in no way be construed as Geological Survey Ireland support for or objection to a proposed development or plan. The data are made freely available to all and can be used as independent scientific data in assessments, plans or policies. It should be noted that in many cases these data are a baseline or starting point for further site specific assessments.

While we endeavour to have our data quickly and readily available online there may be some instances where we have data relating to current or ongoing projects that is not available online but can be requested by email to gsiplanning[at]gsi.ie.

Local authorities are critical partners of the Geological Heritage Programme of Geological Survey Ireland in protecting, through the planning system, those County Geoheritage Sites (CGSs) which fall within their county limits. In many cases, these are sites of high amenity or educational value, already zoned or listed in the plan. Inclusion in the County Development Plan (CDP) provides protection of the sites against potentially damaging developments that normally require planning permission, such as building, quarrying, landfilling or forestry. It is also important that the democratic process of public consultation and approval by councillors of the CDP allows stakeholders in the sites and the local community can buy into the process.

As the CGS is a non-statutory classification, but is covered by planning policies that protect and promote them, there are no specific restrictions on what a landowner can do with a geological heritage site. Any proposed development that requires planning permission simply flags the geological heritage interest of the site and allows it to be considered in any decision along with any other competing interests and values. It provides the opportunity for consultation and dialogue if any changes are proposed. It provides no protection from, for example, a farmer who wishes to clear a field of mushroom rocks, erratic boulders, or exposed geology for the purpose of replanting with grass other than, perhaps, an appreciation of what might be lost.