Severe Weather Events Response

Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 15 January 2014

Wednesday, 15 January 2014

Questions (510)

Michael Healy-Rae

Question:

510. Deputy Michael Healy-Rae asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government in view of the recent storms which resulted in trees knocking down power and telephone lines, his views on whether it is time to bring in legislation to ensure no road side trees would be allowed to grow within a safe distance of the road where these service cables run; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1252/14]

Written answers

Minister of State at the Department of the Environment, Community and Local Government

I have no statutory function in relation to this matter. However, I understand that under Section 58 of the Communications Regulation Act 2002 (No 20/2002), an electronic communications network operator or any person authorised by the operator may lop or cut any tree, shrub or hedge which obstructs or interferes with any physical infrastructure of the network operator.

Question No. 511 answered with Question No. 499.