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Wildlife Regulations

Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 27 February 2014

Thursday, 27 February 2014

Questions (148)

Brendan Griffin

Question:

148. Deputy Brendan Griffin asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht if the gorse burning season will be extended; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [10072/14]

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Written answers

The Wildlife Acts 1976 to 2012 prohibit the cutting, grubbing, burning or destruction of vegetation, with certain strict exemptions, from 1 March to 31 August during the nesting and breeding season for birds and wildlife.

Vegetation such as hedgerows and scrub is important as wildlife habitat and needs to be managed in the interests of both farming and biodiversity. I have initiated a review of the current legislation to ensure that it remains both effective and balanced. Without prejudging the outcome of the review, in the timeframe available, it would not be possible to amend the closing date of 1 March this year.

The issue of eligibility of land is one for my colleague, the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine.

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