Donegal Councillors suggest hedge-cutting charges for landowners

Donegal councillors have called for the council to charge residents for hedge cutting in an Lifford-Stranorlar MD meeting this morning.

Cllr Martin Scanlon, Independent, and Cllr Gary Doherty, Sinn Féin, have suggested that as the hedge-cutting season begins, the Donegal County Council should charge for all hedge-cutting services it provides.

Speaking at the meeting, Cllr Scanlon introduced the idea, saying, “The council does cut some hedges for landowners, and I know it has to be done, certainly, but the council needs to be billing these landowners.

“It’s the same landowners every year that don’t cut their hedges, and the council will come and do it… It’s not fair on all landowners and farmers.

“Anyone who does go out and takes the initiative to cut [the hedges] themselves, and they’re seeing the neighbour that doesn’t do it getting it done for free.

“I think we need to be imposing a charge when the council carries out hedge-cutting works for safety reasons and visibility.”

Speaking in agreement with this, Cllr Doherty said, “I agree with what Councillor Scanlon said about charging landowners who aren't taking care of their hedges. If you ring the fire brigade, you’ll get the invoice from Donegal County Council, so it should be the same if the council comes out and cuts your hedge. I think it’s a fair proposal.”

“The smaller roads are narrow when the trees grow; it’s nearly impossible to pass them. I’d urge the public to get the trees and hedges cut.”

In response to this, Claire McGeever, the council's Area Engineer, said, “It is the responsibility of the landowner. The council does trim hedges sometimes on national and regional roads, and junctions.

“The responsibility does sit with the landowner, and if the council does have to cut a hedge, we do have the option of sending them a bill, but there would be very few hedges that the council would cut that aren't public hedges.”

Cllr Martin Harley of Fine Gael highlighted the importance of hedge cutting to maintain road safety earlier in the meeting, saying, “Hedge cutting season is back open again; I implore for the cutting of trees and hedges for the safety of people using the road and access for emergency services.