ICMSA calls to cut hedgerow restrictions by a month

The ‘closed period’ restricting hedgerow cutting should be reduced by a month, the ICMSA has claimed.

At present, hedgerows cannot be cut from March 1 to August 31 for fear of disturbing nesting birds. The ICMSA wants this period shortened by a calendar month, to run from March 1 to July 31.

Pat Rohan, ICMSA farm and rural affairs chairman, has made a submission to the National Parks and Wildlife Service seeking hedgerow law changes. He cites research proving that birds have left their nests by the end of July.