Westport hosts debate on the future of Irish forests

Public debate on the future of Irish forests

A public debate on possible models to secure a sustainable future for our forests will be held on Friday, July 5, at 7.30pm in the Atlantic Coast Hotel, Westport.
Recent coverage about the proposed sell-off of Coilte has brought the forestry industry to the attention of many people. When the prospect of losing ownership seemed probable, many began to examine just what a wonderful amenity we have in our public woodlands. In line with this, Mayo Greens have organised a public event to discuss possible options on how to make the best use of our publicly and privately owned forests.
The first confirmed speaker on the evening is Dr Rory Harrington, who has worked in and studied the industry for many years. Delivering a talk entitled ‘Some new perspectives on woodland and forest management in Ireland’, Dr Harrington will outline his vision of how our forests can be used to produce not only a sustainable timber supply, but also remain a valuable ecosystem for the benefit of all.
PhD Candidate Cathy Fitzgerald will outline her research work, ‘Beyond ecocide to deep sustainability: Stories from a small Irish forest’. Cathy will describe her experience of continuous cover forestry, and how this corresponds with Green Party policy.
A number of public representatives have been invited to outline the Government’s plans, and the Green Party has also requested input from opposition parties.
Admission free, but donations welcome.