The Government must urgently deliver a workable scheme for ash dieback that supports and compensates farmers.
That's the view of the Chair of Cavan IFA, Maurice Brady. He says farmers with ash dieback have been waiting too long, the time for talking is well and truly over.
The Department needs to introduce a new scheme as a matter of urgency, as it's a major road safety issue also.
It is estimated that up to 90% of ash trees will succumb to the disease, resulting in a major change to our landscape and woodland structure One concern as the disease spreads is the risk of accidents occurring due to trees falling or branches dropping. The danger will increase as older trees become infected. This will have serious implications for forest owners, particularly if the trees are growing close to public roadways.
Mr Brady says funding is needed by the government and its needed now.
