Wildlife Protection

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 7 March 2023

Tuesday, 7 March 2023

Ceisteanna (701)

Mairéad Farrell

Ceist:

701. Deputy Mairéad Farrell asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if he is aware and has contacted the HSE with regard to the use of heavy machinery in Priority Annex 1 habitat and the felling of trees in south woods in Merlin Woods, Galway City; how this complies with the EU Habitats Directive (article 6.2); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11356/23]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine

The area of Merlin Park, Galway falls within an Urban Area, under the remit of Galway City Council. Under Section 19 of the Forestry Act 2014, tree felling in an urban area is one on the instances where a tree felling licence is not required to fell trees. This would therefore appear to be a matter for Galway City Council. Finally, I understand the NPWS are aware of the situation.