Gantner to review proposed nature law after criticism

Vorarlberg regional councillor Christian Gantner will examine whether changes are needed to a proposed nature conservation law after receiving 202 submissions, ORF reported. He will focus on criticism of protections for moors and banks and of participation rights.

The proposed amendment would reduce the activities requiring nature conservation permits and speed up procedures. Conservation groups have argued it would weaken protections and restrict their rights to take part in proceedings. The submissions also included legal objections from the Vorarlberg Bar Association and the regional ombudsman.

Gantner, of the Austrian People’s Party, said the responses included both criticism and support. He did not specify which provisions might change.

Environment Minister Norbert Totschnig, also of the Austrian People’s Party, welcomed the plan to simplify and accelerate procedures, saying he saw no problem with the draft. His ministry’s written response also supported reducing bureaucracy, but cited European Court of Justice rulings and recommended ensuring effective legal protection that complies with EU law. Totschnig said he saw no concerns about the draft’s compliance with EU law.

State parliament president Harald Sonderegger said a government bill still had to be prepared. After reviewing the submissions, the regional government will decide whether to revise the draft before the state parliament considers it.