Opposition to major forestry scheme gets backing of councillors
A local community is fighting back against further forestry plans in their area.
Castlebar councillors have pledged to write to the Department of Agriculture and lobby Government TDs about a contentious forestry development.
There are plans to plant more than 36 acres of forestry in Craggagh, near Balla. The application has been met with fierce local opposition and a public meeting was recently held on the issue.
The subject was discussed at the monthly meeting of Castlebar Municipal District.
“It’s absolutely disgraceful,” said Cllr Donna Sheridan, adding that the proposed development seems "nonsensical".
Cllr Cyril Burke said the company involved has already planted extensively in the area.
“I think it is unfair that they will put more onto the community,” he remarked.
More than 50% of the townland has already been planted and locals fear being "smothered" by forestry.
The lack of consultation has also galled the local community.
“If this company had any oil in their lamps they would communicate with the people living there,” added Cllr Burke.
Cllr Blackie Gavin said he has concerns about the prospect of forest fires with a local school located close to the proposed development.
Cllr Michael Kilcoyne said the responsibility ultimately rests with Government and a change in legislation.
He said writing to the Department is "like writing to Santa Claus".
“You need to get the law changed,” Cllr Kilcoyne stated.
Cllr Ger Deere said the proposed project will isolate and overshadow the community in Craggagh.
“I see the devastation this is going to cause,” he commented.
Cllr Al McDonnell said the spruce and pine trees that are proposed can be poisonous and represent a threat to water courses.
“This is all down to economics and import substitution,” he said.
He said the proposed trees can grow to heights of 30 feet and will completely change the local landscape.
