Monaghan IFA Farm Forestry Chairman, Alan Mullen called on the Minister for
Environment, Heritage and Local Government, Phil Hogan to remove the embargo
on forestry operations in Hen Harrier Special Protection Areas (SPAs).

Alan Mullen stated that changes to the Forestry Management Protocol in Hen
Harrier SPAs were imposed without any consultation or notification and had
resulted in further restrictions on planting and harvesting.

He continued that there was no evidence that the forest operations currently
being practiced had negatively impacted on the hen harrier population. “The
numbers of hen harriers has remained steady over the past number of years
and surveys have shown that restocked forests are now the preferred nesting
sites for the bird.”

Alan Mullen said the restrictions imposed are disproportionate and suggested
that the Forestry Management Protocol in Hen Harrier SPAs remain operational
until relevant stakeholders have been consulted and an expert group has been
established to determine the real risk to the bird.

“All restrictions imposed should be proportionate to the risk to the hen
harrier and should be based on scientific research,” said Mr. Mullen.