Unlicensed tree felling fines top €1m

Fines of up to €1m for unlicensed felling of trees are proposed by the Government in the Forestry Bill 2013.

Conviction on indictment can lead to imprisonment for up to five years.

“These penalties are at the higher end of the scale, reflecting the seriousness of the offence, and the need for dissuasive measures to ensure that the forest estate is protected,” said Forestry Minister Tom Hayes.