Calls to extend burning season for hill farmers

Flexibility is needed when it comes to dates when burning is allowed to manage gorse.

That's according to IFA National Hill Farming Committee Chair Flor McCarthy.

The Kenmare farmer is calling on the Minister for Heritage, Malcolm Noonan to ensure burning of gorse can take place in March due to inclement weather in the first two months of the year.

Under the Wildlife Act, burning is illegal from March 1st to August 31st.

Mr McCarthy says the extension will allow for better vegetation management, help farmers keep land eligible for various CAP schemes and reduce the risk of wildfires.

He added the Minister must take into account how farmers manage their hill land responsibly.