A man who cleared scrub from his land in order to plant grass was before Ballinrobe District Court last week following a prosecution brought against him and the person who carried out the works, by the Minister for the Environment, Heritage, and Local Government.
Conservation ranger Maurice McDonnell outlined to the court that on May 7 2009 he visited land at Annies, Hollymount, which is owned by Patrick Finlay, Gloongowla, Ballinrobe.
The ranger observed that one hectare of vegetation was cleared on land which led to Lough Cara. Hazel, willow and holly was cleared, all of which provides protection for nesting birds. Finlay told the ranger that he was not aware that the site was a designated conservation area and that he couldn’t clear scrub between March 1 and August 31.
Finlay said that the works were carried out on April 14 by Michael Gibbons, Annies, Hollymount.
Solicitor Cathy McDarby said that her client, who is married with three children, was fully co-operative and was not aware of the law.
Judge Mary Devins dismissed the charge against Gibbons and directed that Finlay contribute €250 to the Golden Eagle Trust.
