Clare County Council has called for the implementation of a large scale plan to address the countywide issue of the proximity of trees to broadband cables and parts of the electricity grid.
It comes ahead of the release of the local authority’s review of the multiagency response to Storm Éowyn and its aftermath.
A rigid proposal involving the removal and cutting back of trees within 10 metres of electricity poles received widespread support when proposed at this week’s meeting of the county’s elected representatives.
In response to the motion, Senior Engineer, Cyril Feeney, says the local authority does have power under the Roads Act to remove roadside trees, however, this does not extend to private property.
Prior to the removal of any roadside trees, consultancy with the relevant utility company would also be required, to establish responsibility for doing so.
Whitegate Councillor Pat Burke, says the planning processes for broadband installation and construction of new houses needs to be reviewed.
Further clarity has also been sought about legislation surrounding the cutting or felling of trees on private land.
O’Callaghan’s Mills Councillor, Conor Ryan, claims there is a misconception that land owners are unable to cut trees outside of a designated open season.
He says many people also wrongly believe that a designated felling license is required to do so.
Meanwhile, a separate motion has been put forward, requesting the council to call on the government to implement an aid scheme for the installation of generators for personal use during future storms.
Ennis Councillor, Pat Daly, says people need to be better prepared with storms starting to become more frequent.
