Council responds to tree removal concern

FINGAL County Council has removed trees in Donabate after they were deemed to be a risk to the public.

The council have confirmed the removal of a large number of mature trees along the Portrane road in the vicinity of the scouts’ den, Donabate Credit Union, the community centre and St Michael’s House.

A spokeswoman for the council said Fergus O’Carroll, Executive Parks Superintendent, a highly qualified and experienced arboriculturist, assessed the trees last year following a serious incident.

One of the trees fell on a car in which the occupants were a mother and her two young children.

“The trees were found to be in a condition that presented a serious risk to road users and the community centre, credit union building and adjoining housing development,

? the spokeswoman told Northside People.

“Senior staff from the council’s Parks Department have already begun discussions with the local Tidy Towns group and members of the Community Council about the replanting of appropriate species in line with the council’s tree strategy.

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Dublin North TD Brendan Ryan (Lab) highlighted local concern over the removal of the trees.

“Following numerous representations from residents of Portrane and Donabate, I made contact with the Parks Department seeking information and requested a tree surgeon’s report,

? said Deputy Ryan.

“Many of the representations questioned the condition and viability of the trees.

“Whilst it is regrettable that it was deemed necessary to remove the trees on safety grounds, it is vitally important that the replacement trees be planted by the council as promised. I intend to keep the pressure on the council in this matter.

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