Tree felling in the Toon Valley

7.2.2019

Question for written answer E-000753-19
to the Commission
Rule 130
Liadh Ní Riada (GUE/NGL)

Oak woodlands are of great cultural and ecological importance on the island of Ireland.

Under Article 17 of the EU Habitats Directive, the Member States have an obligation to monitor, assess and draw up a report on the conservation status of certain habitats, including woodlands.

In April 2017, the Forest Service section of the Irish Department for Agriculture granted a felling licence to landowners for an oak woodland on their holding at Silvergrove in the Toon Valley, near Inchigeelagh in County Cork. Once the licence was obtained, the landowner felled native oak trees, which are part of the native woodlands.

1. Is the Commission aware of tree felling in the Toon Valley and, if so, what stance does it take on the matter?

2. Does it believe that Article 17 of the Habitats Directive has been breached?

3. Does it take the view that the designation process for woodlands to become protected areas of conservation is fit for purpose?