Ash-tree disease is threatening hurley production

Former GAA president Sean Kelly says efforts must be increased to limit ash-tree disease and save the hurley.

The Ireland South MEP stressed the importance of effective management and co-operation between national governments, authorities, and the EU to address the threat posed by ash dieback.

The fungal disease, which has been traced to an outbreak in Poland in 1992, has spread rapidly across much of Europe. It is characterised by leaf loss and crown dieback.

Mr Kelly hosted a seminar in Limerick yesterday. The threat posed by the disease to hurleys, which are made from ash, was discussed at the event.

Mr Kelly referred to Department of Agriculture figures which show that around 115 cases of ash dieback were recorded across 19 counties in Ireland by January of this year.

Ash dieback spores can be transported more than 15km by the breeze, and can survive on woodland ground for up to five years.

“Solidarity and co-operation are required to tackle ash dieback,” said Mr Kelly.

“In sharing experiences, all countries are better able to assess methods that may help prevent the spread of plant diseases.”

Leading hurley maker John Torpey said that his company, which was established in 1981 and which is located near Kilkishen, Co Clare, manufactured up to 70,000 hurleys a year.

“I have been going to the Netherlands for 18 years now for ash, because, as the business grew, we could not get enough in Ireland,” said Mr Torpey.