Mayo IFA calls for countrywide pilot scheme to tackle dangerous roadside trees
John Lynskey, Mayo IFA Chair said the initiative would require financial support from the central government to ensure it could be delivered effectively
Mayo IFA has called on Mayo County Council to introduce a pilot scheme to address the growing problem of dangerous roadside trees across County Galway, following a well-attended information meeting in Ballina this week.
The meeting heard presentations from Roy O Brien IFA RE, who provided advice to landowners on the safe removal of dangerous roadside trees, and Declan Clarke of FBD Insurance, who outlined the important insurance and liability issues facing farmers undertaking such work.
The advice from Roy O Brien was that farmers should engage registered and reputable contractors to carry out tree felling and, wherever possible, arrange for the work to be undertaken from within the farm rather than from the public road. Where work impacts on a public road, an appropriate traffic management plan must be put in place to protect workers and road users. He also advised landowners when requesting quotes on price to get a written quote on the price and a breakdown of the costs involved.
Declan Clarke of FBD Insurance addressed the insurance implications for farmers, emphasising the importance of having adequate insurance cover when undertaking tree-felling activities. Farmers were advised to ensure that their liability cover is appropriate and that they fully understand their responsibilities before commencing any work.
The meeting also heard contributions from Cllr John O Hara who gave practical advice to landowners on dealing with felling trees and dealing with ESB who are a vital cog in tree felling. The role of An Garda Síochána was addressed by Sgt Sean McHale Community police officer where he offered the services of An Garda, when possible, for farmers to help in traffic management.
He also addressed the meeting on farm safety and from the wider public safety perspective.
A key outcome of the meeting was a call for Mayo County Council to consider establishing a pilot project whereby the Council would take responsibility for managing traffic and overseeing the safe removal of dangerous trees identified by landowners throughout the county.
Mayo IFA County Chairman John Lynskey who chaired the meeting believes that such a scheme would provide a practical and coordinated approach to a problem that is becoming increasingly serious for farmers and rural communities. Mr Lynskey said the initiative would require financial support from the central government to ensure it could be delivered effectively.
The meeting also agreed on the need to develop a national lobbying campaign to secure adequate funding and support for a coordinated approach to dangerous roadside trees across the country. The issue has become increasingly urgent in light of recent storms and the spread of ash dieback, which have significantly increased the number of potentially dangerous trees along public roads.
Farmers are increasingly concerned about their responsibilities and potential liabilities where mature trees on their land pose.