Tom Hayes (Tipperary South, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

The management of hedgerows includes the regular trimming and cutting of species such as hawthorn and blackthorn to ensure they are maintained in a stock proof condition. The exemption of these species also takes into account the natural capacity of these species to produce vigorous growth when cut. Tabling an amendment to limit the exemption to below a certain size of these species would prove impractical for landowners who periodically cut thousands of kilometres of hedgerow each year. Good practice encourages the retention of individual trees in hedgerows, and landowners take this into account in their management. Hawthorn hedges and individual trees provide an important contribution to our countryside and this exemption allows farmers to manage hedgerows in accordance with good agricultural practices.