Holly Cairns
Ceist:693. Deputy Holly Cairns asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if he will review the prescribed Burning Code of Practice. [11082/23]
Amharc ar fhreagraTuesday, 7 March 2023
Ceisteanna (693)
Freagraí scríofa
The burning of vegetation is controlled by the Wildlife Acts. Individuals who are found to burn vegetation within that prohibited period are liable to prosecution by An Garda Síochána or by the National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS).
My Department has no role in enforcement of this legislation. However, the Code of Best Practice for Prescribed Burning – Ireland was first published by my Department in 2012.
The code provides practical guidance for farmers and other landowners to plan and prepare a safe burning of vegetation that is legally compliant. Given the time elapsed and developments in legislation and the practice and management of upland vegetation during this time, I have asked my Dept. to review of this document. I am aware that there is also a need a provide guidance to landowners who may not wish to use fire to manage vegetation and to provide guidance on a wider set of options to manage upland vegetation.