Farmers warn National Parks and Wildlife Service and Birdwatch Ireland to stay clear of their land
IFA chairman Jer Bergin, who launched the drive in Shannon Harbour, Offaly, said the new Government must address long-standing issues of land designation.
He said imposing environmental designations has resulted in significant restrictions on farming activities and other developments.
“When designations were first imposed, commitments were given compensation would be paid where farmers suffered losses. However, in recent years these commitments have not been honoured,” he said.
Mr Bergin said the new Government must honour the existing agreement for implementation of Special Area of Conservation and other designations.
This includes proper consultation, an independent appeals system, and full compensation for devaluation, where restrictions are imposed.
IFA SAC project team chairman Tom Turley accused the National Parks and Wildlife Service of refusing to allow remedial works on rivers and turloughs.
Claiming this has contributed to severe flooding in certain areas, he said dredging and clearing of rivers will have to take place to alleviate the problems associated with flooding.
