Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 7 October 2015
213. Deputy Patrick O'Donovan asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht further to Parliamentary Question No.666 of 10 February 2015, if there is an update from the working group regarding possible changes to hedge cutting; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [34936/15]
Amharc ar fhreagraVegetation such as hedgerows and scrub is important as wildlife habitat and needs to be managed in the interests of both farming and biodiversity. In that regard, a review of the current legislative provisions was initiated to ensure that they remain both effective and balanced. The submissions received, during a public consultation process on the matter, have been published on the website of the National Parks and Wildlife Service of my Department at http://www.npws.ie/legislation.
Following the end of the public consultation period, I established a Working Group, consisting of officials from my Department, to consider the submissions received and to report back to me with a range of proposals. I expect to announce the outcome of the review in the near future.
Any changes to the closed period for cutting, grubbing, burning or destruction of vegetation, as provided for in section 40 of the Wildlife Acts 1976-2012, would require amending legislation.
