Vol. 404 No. 7
64 Mr. Bell asked the Minister for the Environment whether many of the trees which fell during the gale force weather of early January, fell because they were overgrown by ivy; where accidents occurred as a result, if his Department secured a report on the reason; whether there are any regulations or plans for inspection or supervison by his Department or by local authorities regarding this matter; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
My Department have no information on the reasons for fallen trees in the recent storms. However, a study undertaken following storms in 1984 concluded that no healthy tree was brought down by ivy and that those fallen trees which had ivy growing to the tips of their branches were either already dead or had their roots infected by honey fungus.
The primary responsibility for the safety of roadside trees rests with the landowner. My Department issued a comprehensive circular to local authorities on roadside trees in 1988. This reminded them of their statutory powers and, in particular, asked them to bring to the notice of landowners any trees which they considered to be dangerous. I am arranging to have an appropriate followup circular issued to local authorities.
Improved legislative provisions relating to dangerous trees will be included in the forthcoming roads Bill.
