Photograph shows the recent operation carried out in Drumkeeragh Forest, which led to the destruction of habitat during frog spawning season.

The Green Party has expressed disappointment at the response it has received from the Forest Service regarding a recent operation it carried out in Drumkeeragh Forest, which led to the destruction of habitat during frog spawning season.

The Forest Service originally claimed that no habitat or frogspawn was destroyed. However in a letter received by the Forest Service to the Green Party they have admitted that frogspawn was in fact destroyed but that they were unaware at the time.

The Forest Service also stated that they plan operations with compliance of the UK Woodland Assurance Scheme, a scheme accredited by the Forest Stewardship Council under sustainable forest management. Under this scheme the environmental requirements are comprehensive and so the Forest Service should take their role in environmental protection and enhancement seriously.

Green Party Cllr Cadogan Enright believes however that the recent destruction of frogspawn during spawning season over the last two years shows hypocrisy on part of the Forest Service.

Cllr Enright said, “If the Forest Service claims to be bound by the UK Woodland Assurance Scheme and Sustainable Forest Management then they really should learn about the different seasons in which our wildlife and biodiversity are at their most vulnerable.”

“I was very disappointed with the response I received from the Forest Service. First of all they would not admit to the destruction of the habitat and no apology was given or assurance that this destruction of habitat would never happen again.”

The Green Party will work to protect our fragile environment and hold those government agencies, bound to protect it, to account of their actions,” concluded Cllr Enright.

Press Cuttings: Councillor hits out over Drumkeeragh frogspawn response