Concerns were raised in the Dáil in a Topical Issues Debate (Oct 10th) about the lack of protection for existing hedgerows in Ireland. Waterford TD Marc O Cathasaigh raised the issue and outlined the importance of hedgerows to support biodiversity corridors, as habitats for other wildlife. The TD also raised the value of whitethorn hedges in the springtime and hedgerows role in carbon sequestration and as flood defences.
Hedgerows Ireland which was founded in Tipperary is actively engaged in a protest at a farm near Clonmel due to concerns that the new owner will demolish existing hedgerows between fields to create a farm consisting of one large field. Deputy O’Cathasaigh sought an update on a review of the environmental impact screening thresholds that apply to hedgerows that was conducted by the Government in 2023. At present it is possible to remove 500m of hedgerows without applying for an environmental impact screening assessment.
A total of 64 submissions were received and reviewed in response to the 2023 review but as of now officials are continuing to review the outcome of the public consultation in tandem with its legal team and no details have been published.
