Mayo councillor seeks derogation to allow hedge-cutting from July 1

A DEROGATION is being sought to allow hedge-cutting commence from July 1.

Proposing the matter be raised at ministerial level, Councillor Patsy O'Brien pointed out that under the ACRES environmental scheme, meadows can be cut from July 1 and he didn't see any difference between that and cutting back hedges.

Money is allocated for the works by councillors, he said, but it's now mid-October and some hedges have still not been cut.

When the season opens they should be in a position to move faster, he told council management.

Briars and bushes are sticking out, impeding vision, said Councillor O'Brien.

He was supported by Councillor Johnny O'Malley who asked what are rural people getting for their local property tax. He answered himself: “Nothing.”

* Funded under the Local Democracy Reporting Scheme