PRESS RELEASE: Passing of the Heritage Bill highlights unhealthy relationship between government and lobbyists

The Irish Wildlife Trust (IWT) is disappointed at the passing into law of the poorly named Heritage Bill and we would like to pay tribute to all who campaigned to have it scrapped – including members of the public and politicians in both houses of the Oireachtas. We would also acknowledge that without the intervention of Fianna Fáil, to limit the cutting of hedgerows in August to those on roadsides only, this law would have been much worse. However, there is nothing good for nature in this legislation.

The process has highlighted the unhealthy relationship between Fine Gael and the Irish Farmers’ Association and the lack of regard in the government for the protection of nature. It has shown that Fine Gael are willing to disregard due process and scientific advice to deliver promises to their favoured interest groups. It shows that we cannot expect our Minister for Heritage to defend our heritage.

Although this is a say day for Irish wildlife, we have taken heart from the large numbers of people who are willing to fight for our heritage and the preservation of our precious countryside. This is a fight that does not end today.  END.