Dear Friends, Wildlife Advocates, and people from Bray across the world,

We are at a critical crossroads for the beloved swans that grace Bray Harbour.  A suspension bridge design over the River Dargle in our harbour threatens the limbs and lives of these majestic creatures.  This is not just a bridge; it has the potential to be a cruel legacy if it were to go ahead. 

We have just over 6500 signatures - we are now aiming for 10,000 ahead of presenting this petition to the Wicklow County Council and the Irish Government. PS - No  obligation to donate here - it's for the platform not us. If you prefer pop over to chip in a  couple of euro at https://www.gofundme.com/f/savebray

Why We Must Act:

Endangered Habitat: The swans of Bray are not just a picturesque sight; they are an integral part of our local environment and social habitat. A 22m high suspension bridge could ultimately lead to a gruesome decline in their population.

Community Impact: Our swans attract visitors and residents alike, contributing to the charm and identity of Bray. We must protect our natural heritage for future generations, ensuring that our children can enjoy the same beautiful sights we cherish today and god forbid that anyone would ever witness swans that have been mangled and killed as a high suspension bridge with vertical cables impedes their right of way.  (Peripheral vision - they won't see the cables!)

Advocating for Change: We have the power to demand a solution that respects both infrastructure needs and the preservation of our swans. When we started our campaign back in 2021 there were 122 Swans; this number can number can and does fluctuate. Currently we are thrilled to see 12 new Cygnets have arrived in the last month adding to our numbers!

Join Us in Making a Difference:

We urge you to sign this petition to halt any advancement of a bridge of similar vein to the Samuel Beckett Bridge in Dublin City (Sadly nicknamed the 'swan slicer' bridge) and push for a safer alternative that takes into account the needs and right to life of our swan population. Every signature counts and will amplify our voice in calling for a solution that benefits both our community and its wildlife.

What You Can Do:

Sign the Petition: Add your name to stand up for the swans of Bray.
Share Widely: Encourage your friends, family, and social media networks to support this important cause. The more voices we gather, the stronger our message will be. Alongside our petition we have a series of fundraising events, recently our Bray Ghost Walks were a hit, next up is a Pub Quiz. Tune into Save Bray Community group and Save Our Floodplain on Facebook for updates. 

Engage with Local Officials: Let your local representatives know how much you care about the swans and the need for a thoughtfully designed bridge in an optimal location.

Together, we can protect our swans and ensure that Bray Harbour remains a sanctuary for wildlife. Let’s stand united for a future where both nature and infrastructure can thrive! 

Sign the petition today and be the change our community needs!

Thank you for your support, Protect Bray's Swans Team xx

View the design here: https://www.wicklow.ie/Living/Services/Roads-Transport/Roads-Infrastructural-Projects/PRR-21-869-Part-VIII-Bray-Sustainable-Transport-Bridge

 https://www.irishtimes.com/news/environment/warning-issued-over-risk-of-swan-deaths-at-new-bray-bridge-1.4668724 

In Ireland, swans are protected under both national and European legislation.
Wildlife Acts 1976 to 2012
Protection of Swans: All swans, including the common Mute Swan, are protected under the Wildlife Acts. This means it is illegal to hunt, kill, capture, or disturb swans or their nests and eggs without a specific license.
EU Birds Directive
General Protection: Swans, like all wild birds, are protected under the EU Birds Directive (Directive 2009/147/EC). This directive requires member states, including Ireland, to take measures to protect wild birds, particularly by protecting their habitats, restricting hunting, and controlling trade in bird species.