Heather Humphreys (Cavan-Monaghan, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Deputy. I am fairly familiar with the dates in Northern Ireland, which are the same as ours. They were changed from the end of July to the end of August. I fully understand the need for health and safety considerations, but councils have the authority to cut hedges where are there are health and safety issues and I would encourage them to do so. I live in the country and understand that when hedges are growing into the middle of the road, it is very dangerous.

The issue is complex and many submissions have been received from farming organisations, contractors, BirdWatch Ireland and other groups. I met different organisations and there are diverse views. I am considering the issue and my officials are working on it. I am trying to find the best way to get the right balance between accommodating hedge cutting while at the same time protecting habitats.

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