Leitrim councillors seek meeting with Minister on forestry taskforce
A delegation of councillors, including Cathaoirleach Paddy O'Rourke and one representative from each Municipal District, is urgently seeking a meeting with Minister Michael Healy-Rae.
A delegation of councillors is seeking a meeting with Michael Healy-Rae TD, Minister of State at the Department of Agriculture with responsibility for Forestry, to provide input into the newly established forestry taskforce.
At a Leitrim County Council meeting, Cllr Enda McGloin proposed a motion calling for the meeting.
“It is imperative that we discuss the need for all forestry plantations to register with the local authority to easily identify owners when damage is done and access is required. These are some of the important issues that need to be considered through the Minister's taskforce,” Cllr McGloin’s motion read.
He emphasised the significance of engaging with the Minister, highlighting that Leitrim, a county with extensive forestry, frequently experiences power supply disruptions in areas - as many as six or seven in a year.
“I think we need the opportunity to ensure whatever comes from this taskforce has an imprint of our contribution here at Leitrim County Council,” Cllr McGloin said.
He informed members that he had spoken to one of Minister Healy-Rae’s officials who agreed to meet with a delegation from the Council.
Cllr Gary Prior also proposed a motion calling for Minister Healy-Rae to consult and collaborate with ESB officials on introducing new regulations to ensure adequate corridors along existing powerlines and enforce strict guidelines for future plantations.
He criticised Minister Healy-Rae for failing to visit Leitrim in the aftermath of Storm Éowyn.
It was agreed the delegation would include Cathaoirleach Paddy O’Rourke, and one councillor from each Municipal District.