Social Democrats TD Jennifer Whitmore has written to Taoiseach Simon Harris asking him to support a proposal that would see the State purchase land in Wicklow to allow for the expansion of the ancient woodland in the Glen of the Downs.
Deputy Whitmore, who is the party’s biodiversity spokesperson and a TD for Wicklow, said:
“Approximately 200 acres of land in Delgany adjoining the Glen of the Downs and Kindlestown Forest has come up for sale. If purchased by the State, this would potentially allow for a doubling of this magnificent nature reserve, which is an invaluable national treasure and well-known Wicklow landmark.
“Sadly, the growth and vibrancy of the woodlands has been stifled in recent years as it is bounded by agricultural land on all sides and dissected by a major road.
“The purchase of this site by the State would allow for the joining of these two forests and provide a once in a lifetime opportunity to expand this majestic oak woodland.
“It is important to remember that Ireland has committed to the EU’s Nature Restoration Law, which will set binding targets to restore degraded ecosystems – particularly those with the most potential to capture and store carbon. The measures will cover at least 20 per cent of the EU’s land and sea areas by 2030, and ultimately all ecosystems in need of restoration by 2050.
“The Government has already set aside €3.5 billion in its Climate and Nature Fund for these types of projects.
“I have now written to Taoiseach Simon Harris, who is a TD for Wicklow, urging him to support this initiative in the interest of his constituents and visitors to this spectacular area.
“I have also launched a petition calling on the Government to buy these lands so we can preserve the woods for future generations.”
September 9, 2024
Full text of Jennifer Whitmore’s petition here