Coillte is asking members of the public not to enter forests where there is clear storm damage or where there are clearance operations underway.

 

Coillte Statement

At this stage we do not know the full extent of the damage caused by Storm Eowyn to our forest estate.  However, early indications are that it is extensive. Our priority at this time is to support the National Emergency Co-ordination Group, power companies and local communities, by clearing individual trees to open road access and helping them to restore power and services to homes and farms as quickly as possible.

 Coillte’s staff and contractors are working hard in hazardous conditions to deal with any damage caused as quickly as possible.  We thank our neighbours and stakeholders for their patience and for highlighting any damage and as we clear the most urgent areas as a priority.

With regard to damage to our own forest estate, we do not have specific details at this time. Once we’ve dealt with the priority of tree clearance, our focus will turn to mapping and estimating the extent of damage across our forest estate.

As we endeavour to clear areas impacted by storm damage as quickly as possible, safety is our absolute priority. Hazards arising from storm damage may not be visible. Coillte is asking members of the public not to enter forests where there is clear storm damage or where there are clearance operations underway.