asked the Taoiseach if complaints have been made to the Attorney General on the alleged illegal felling of trees on an estate in County Sligo (details supplied); and, if so, whether legal proceedings are being instituted or otherwise.
2.
Ceisteanna — Questions. Oral Answers. - Felling of Trees.
1.
andMr. McQuillan asked the Taoiseach whether the complaint made by Mr. P.J. Gallagher that trees were felled on 32 acres on an estate (details supplied) for which no felling licence was held, has been brought to the attention of the Attorney General; whether the latter has investigated the matter; and, if so, with what result.
With your permission, Sir, I propose to take Questions Nos. 1 and 2 together.
The Attorney General received a complaint from Mr. Sidney Gallagher and replied suggesting that the complaint should be made to the local Garda authorities, as the Gardaí have the necessary facilities for investigating such complaints.
I would refer the Deputies to the reply given in this House by the Minister for Lands on Wednesday last, the 13th instant. The Minister is the prosecuting authority in respect of offences under the Forestry Act, 1946.
Is the Taoiseach aware that Mr. Gallagher did make a complaint to the local garda sergeant and was treated more as a defendant accused than a person laying a complaint, with the result that he had to follow up the complaint to the local sergeant with one to a superintendent? Would the Taoiseach state if it is intended to institute proceedings on the complaint made by Mr. Gallagher either to the sergeant or the superintendent of the Garda Síochána?
I am not aware that the Deputy's complaint in regard to the garda is correct. I understand there is a court case relating to the estate down for hearing so that the matter can be described as sub judice.