Brendan Smith
Ceist:663. Deputy Brendan Smith asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine when a felling licence will issue to a person (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [19160/20]
Amharc ar fhreagraTuesday, 28 July 2020
Ceisteanna (663)
Freagraí scríofa
An application for a tree felling licence was received from the person named by my Department in August, 2019. The application was initially referred to my Department’s Archaeology Unit, as the proposed tree felling would take place near to archaeological monuments. That Unit has submitted their report on the site.
Every application must be carefully assessed for its possible effects on the surrounding countryside and environment to ensure that potential impacts are considered. The tree felling site is close to four environmentally sensitive sites and possible effects cannot yet be ruled out. For this reason, the application has also been referred to my Department’s Ecology Unit.
To assist with the assessment of the application, the person named may, if they wish and at their own expense, submit an Natura Impact Statement (NIS). If they decide to do so, they may contact Felling Section of my Department and they will be provided with guidance on what aspects the NIS should focus. The NIS can greatly reduce the time that would otherwise be required to complete the assessment and once received, the application will be prioritised.