MINDLESS vandals have destroyed a number of trees around an ancient fairy ring fort in Dublin 15.
The
‘rath’ in Corduff, known locally as the fairy ring, has become a night-time hangout spot for youths whose
‘entertainment’ now appears to be setting alight the magnificent trees that have guarded the mythical fort for over 100 years.
Some of the trees that stand around the fairy ring in Corduff Park have been damaged beyond the point of rescue.
Just last week, tree surgeons from Fingal County Council visited the site once again to assess the damage and yet another tree around the fort had to be felled.
At least four of the 15 trees around the rath have now been felled as a result of vandalism.
Local resident Gerry Creighton is one of the many who is saddened and disappointed to see such blatant disregard for nature and Corduff’s history.
“It’s shocking to see these beautiful Chestnut, Beech and Oak trees that have stood around the fairy ring for over a century being destroyed like this,
? he told Northside People.
“I walk through the park every day and most mornings I have to put out a fire at the trees.
“The trees have been a haunt for youths who are drinking and taking drugs at night and they’re either setting the base of the trees alight for warmth or entertainment.
“Either way it’s a disgrace and a shame to see such little respect or regard for nature, the environment and Corduff’s history.
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Mr Creighton explained how his passion for nature stemmed from his 51 years working in Dublin Zoo.
“Trees are literally the life soil of the country,
? he added.
“One tree can release 70 gallons of water into the atmosphere each day.
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The fairy ring fort in Corduff Park was first referenced in an Ordnance Survey Namebook in 1840.
Local community activist Paul Donnelly (SF) called on Fingal County Council to investigate and assess the damage caused to the trees.
“The rath has been the target for vandals who have constantly set fires at the bottom of the trees,
? he said.
“It’s clear that some may need to be cut down which is an awful shame.
“I am appealing to parents to talk to their children and young people to tell them that the park belongs to all the people of Corduff and that it’s only their own community that’s being damaged by this activity.
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A spokesperson for Fingal County Council confirmed that the trees are being vandalised to such an extent that a very mature beech tree had to be felled recently.
“This tree was close to 100 years old and at least 25 metres in height,
? she stated.
“It was perfectly healthy but the fire damage reduced the diameter of the base of the tree to the point of no return.
“It is very disappointing to have to resort to this action but we have no alternative.
“We would also appeal to all parents to tell their children to consider the environment and talk about the protection of these beautiful trees for the benefit of the entire community.
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