Senators call on ministers to unblock burn permits to farmers

Senator Eileen Lynch, Cork North-West, said controlled burning, when carried out responsibly and at the correct time of year, is a well-established land management practice

Senate heard about a farmer who has yet to receive a reply from the National Parks and Wildlife Service to his application in August for controlled burning permission. File picture

Curbs on controlled burning in upland areas such as the Comeragh Mountains straddling the Waterford-Tipperary border between Dungarvan and Clonmel is causing serious concern, the Senate was told.

Subject to strict conditions, the practice is permitted under the Wildlife Act to manage land, enhance biodiversity and reduce the risk of larger uncontrolled fire outbreaks.