Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 4 Mar 1992

Vol. 416 No. 7

Written Answers. - Tree Preservation Orders.

Michael Joe Cosgrave

Question:

93 Mr. Cosgrave asked the Minister for the Environment if he will review the situation regarding the operation of tree preservation orders, in particular their priority and the fact that account is taken of them in relation to granting planning permission; if necessary, if he will introduce new legislation to increase the standing of tree preservation orders, to ensure that trees are preserved throughout the country and in particular in suburban areas, and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Minister for the Environment (Mr. Smith)

My Department issued guidelines on tree preservation, which included a specimen tree preservation order, in 1986. These are currently under review with a view to reissuing them to take account in particular of changes in the compensation provisions introduced under the Local Government (Planning and Development) Act, 1990. Planning authorities and An Bord Pleanála are obliged to have regard to the proper planning and development of an area, including the preservation and improvement of the amenities thereof, when considering planning applications and would in this context have to have regard to tree preservation orders where appropriate. I have no proposals at present to amend the legislation relating to the standing of tree preservation orders.