Ash tree disease not yet in Ireland, says Coveney

A new disease which affects ash trees and is widespread throughout much of Europe has not yet been found in Ireland. But Agriculture Minister Simon Coveney says he is very concerned about the chalara fraxinea fungus.

“The Forest Service of my department has been carrying out surveys for the disease to determine its status in Ireland and has also been monitoring imports of ash plants, and wood products,” said Mr Coveney.

He revealed it has been recently detected in Great Britain, largely associated with imported plant material.