Forestry farmers in County Leitrim find themselves abandoned by the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine (DAFM), leaving them “swinging in the wind,” as highlighted by Fianna Fáil councillor Paddy O’Rourke from Ballinamore. Expressing his dismay, O’Rourke criticized the absence of Minister of State with responsibility for forestry, Michael Healy-Rae, from visiting the windfall-affected areas in Co. Leitrim. Despite Minister for Agriculture Martin Heydon’s recent visit, O’Rourke noted a lack of tangible action in response to the crisis. “One would have imagined that after witnessing the damage first-hand, action would follow, but unfortunately, that hasn’t been the case,” O’Rourke lamented.
The Irish Forest Owners (IFO) convened a meeting on the evening of Tuesday, February 18, to address the necessary measures for forest owners in the aftermath of the destructive Storm Éowyn. Absent from the meeting were Ministers Heydon and Healy-Rae, as well as any representative from DAFM’s forestry division. O’Rourke expressed disappointment at the absence of Minister Healy-Rae or his superior, emphasizing that accountability ultimately rests with the Minister for Agriculture and his junior counterpart. With further weather warnings in place for the upcoming weekend, O’Rourke highlighted the heightened anticipation in Leitrim for the approaching storm, expected to bring additional power outages and damage to the region.
“The ESB, whether due to lack of authority or will, neglected to clear sufficient timber when restoring power lines after the previous storm, making it inevitable for them to come down again,” O’Rourke warned. The councillor’s concerns reflect a broader sentiment among Leitrim residents, who fear the repercussions of inadequate preparations for the impending weather conditions. As the community braces for potential disruptions, the urgency for proactive measures to safeguard against further damage remains paramount.
This ongoing crisis underscores the pressing need for swift and decisive action from government authorities to address the challenges faced by forestry farmers in Co. Leitrim. The failure to prioritize the welfare of these farmers not only jeopardizes their livelihoods but also highlights a systemic neglect of rural communities grappling with the aftermath of natural disasters. As the community navigates the uncertainty of impending storms, the absence of meaningful support from governmental agencies exacerbates the sense of abandonment felt by those directly impacted.
In the face of mounting challenges, the resilience and determination of Leitrim’s forestry farmers stand as a testament to their unwavering commitment to their craft. Despite the adversities they face, these individuals continue to persevere, demonstrating a steadfast resolve in the face of adversity. Their resilience serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of solidarity and support within rural communities, as they confront the uncertainties brought forth by nature’s unpredictable forces.
As the plight of forestry farmers in Co. Leitrim persists, the urgent call for action reverberates across the region, demanding accountability and tangible solutions from government officials. The resilience and fortitude displayed by these farmers serve as a poignant reminder of the unwavering spirit that defines rural communities in the face of adversity. It is imperative that their voices are heard, and their concerns addressed promptly to ensure the sustainability and prosperity of Ireland’s forestry sector for generations to come.
