12/04/2013

Ash Dieback Report Published

The Department of Agriculture is asking for feedback on a new report published today on how to tackle the spread of ash dieback in Northern Ireland.

The strategy outlines a 'Fortress Ireland' approach for the identification, control and eradication of the pest which causes Chalara ash dieback, and sets out the actions that will be taken.

Announcing details of the publication, Forestry Minister Michelle O’Neill said: "This is a serious disease, which could have significant consequences for our landscape unless it can be prevented from becoming established in Ireland. The new control strategy shows our determination to minimise the impact of ash dieback on the island and it is important that we engage widely to tackle the problem."

Ash dieback (Chalara fraxinea) is a damaging organism of certain species of ash. The disease is widespread in mature woodland in the east of England and has been found in young trees elsewhere in Great Britain.

Emergency legislation regulating movement of ash planting stock and ash wood has been introduced in both Northern Ireland and the Republic to prevent the spread.

"We are co-operating closely with authorities in the south of Ireland on a 'fortress Ireland' type approach and I would encourage a wide range of stakeholders to make comment on the new plans," Minister O'Neill continued.

The first findings in the north of ash dieback were confirmed on 16 November 2012.

40 premises have been confirmed positive for the fungus Chalara fraxinea. 37 of these are recently planted sites in counties Antrim, Armagh, Derry, Down and Tyrone, with an additional three findings in nursery retail and trade situations.

(IT)

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86,000 Young Trees Culled In Ash Dieback Control
Some 86,000 young trees have been destroyed to prevent the spread of 'Ash Dieback' into the wider environment, according to the Department of Agriculture and Rural Development. "Over 3,000 site inspections have been carried out since the disease was first found here in November 2012," said Agriculture Minister Michelle O'Neill.
01 November 2012
'Decisive Action' Needed Over Ash Dieback
Agriculture Minister Michelle O’Neill has called for "decisive action" to deal with the risk of ash dieback arriving in Northern Ireland. The Minister made the comments as she met with forestry industry stakeholders to discuss potential measures to deal with the disease. Chalara ash dieback is caused by the fungus Chalara fraxinea.