Environmentalist seeks to halt tree-felling

Environmental activist Peter Sweetman has initiated High Court judicial review proceedings against the Forestry Appeals Committee's decision to grant a felling licence to Coillte for coniferous Sitka Spruce trees on the Bellamont Forest Estate near Cootehill, Co Cavan. The licence, issued in July 2020, covers 2.7 hectares of forestry land. Mr Sweetman contends the committee failed to conduct adequate environmental screening under the EU Habitats Directive before authorising the operation. He argues the site's proximity to designated Special Areas of Conservation and Special Areas of Protection poses risks to local bird and otter populations. Mr Sweetman further claims the committee did not consider cumulative impacts of multiple felling licences in the area or properly assess chemical use and its ecological consequences. He seeks orders quashing the licence decision and declarations of procedural failure. Mr Justice Charles Meenan directed that the application for permission to challenge proceed with all parties present. The matter was adjourned to later in November.