asked the Minister for the Environment whether he proposes to introduce legislation with regard to planning applications which would oblige all those at present exempt from the need to apply for planning permission to address questions of environmental impact, for example, the removal of trees, in the process of their work, which damage can arise in the absence of the conditions which are normal in case of planning permissions.
Written Answers. - Planning Permission Requirements.
44.
The primary statutory basis for the protection of trees is provided by the Forestry Acts, 1946 to 1976.
Proposals are being developed in my Department for the implementation of EC Directive EC 85/337 which relates to the assessment of the likely environmental impact of certain development projects, including projects which do not at present require planning permission.
Section 45 of the Local Government (Planning and Development) Act, 1963, enables a planning authority, in the interest of amenity, to make an order for the protection of any tree, trees, group of trees or woodlands. Such an order may provide for the prohibition of the cutting down, topping, lopping or wilful destruction of trees without the prior consent of the authority.