Forestry debate ‘must be balanced’

IFA Farm Forestry chairman John Jackson has called for balance and science in the debate over the effect of forestry practices on the fresh water pearl mussel.

“While it is important that rare species be protected, allegations over the effect of forestry practices on the fresh water pearl mussel and any restrictions must be balanced and based in science,” he said.

Mr Jackson said forestry brings great benefits to the environment. It has a major role to play in climate change mitigation in its capacity as a carbon sink and through the displacement of fossil fuels by wood energy.