Funding sought for Leitrim farmers to remove dangerous trees

Calls have been made for the Government to provide special grant aid to farmers to remove trees near power lines and roadsides as a preventative measure against future storms.

Cllr Mary Bohan proposed the motion, highlighting that, under current law, farmers are responsible for these trees and must cover the cost of removing them.

“I think that’s essential because we can’t expect them if it’s going to cost a lot of money. The hedge cutting grant scheme is good but it’s quite small,” Cllr Bohan said.

“Looking at what they’ve been through and the damage that’s been done, I think a special package should be put in place now before the next storm comes,” she added.

Cllr Felim Gurn seconded the motion.

Call for Leitrim community representation in forestry taskforce

Cllr James Gilmartin has urged inclusion of representatives from Leitrim's hardest-hit areas in the Windblow Taskforce alongside Coillte, Teagasc and forest owners.

Cllr Warnock supported the idea of a grant but argued that farmers should not bear the responsibility for removing trees when infrastructure runs through them, saying it’s up to the companies who implemented the infrastructure to maintain them.

Cllr Bohan responded, stating that such a measure would serve as a safeguard.

Separately, Cllr Bohan also raised concerns about the lack of public toilets at the playground opposite the Castle in Manorhamilton, calling for funding to address the issue.

Cllr James Gilmartin seconded the motion.

Vincent Dwyer, Head of Finance, Water, Environment, Climate Action, and Emergency Services told Cllr Bohan that he had inquired about funding options but found no clear source.

She was told that further inquiries would be made to see if the provision of toilets is included in the town plan for Manorhamilton.

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