Ash Dieback Update from DARD

“Unless it can be prevented from becoming established, the consequences for our landscape will be significant.” Mr Lavery outlined the emphasis the Department places on plant health and reflected on impacts such as increased trade; globalisation; changing weather patterns and the increasing range of pest and diseases. Commenting on the draft All-Ireland Chalara Control Strategy he said: “It is important we work with our colleagues in the South and stakeholders here to prevent this disease becoming established in Ireland. I would encourage stakeholders to provide views on the plan and to work with us by reporting suspect symptoms they see.” Clare Hall, a Rural Sustainability Researcher from Scottish Rural University College, updated stakeholders on the work she is undertaking as part of the DEFRA team tackling the outbreak of Chalara. This has involved helping to identify aspects about human behaviour and public attitudes that could guide any strategy to control or limit the spread of the disease. Further information on the disease is available on the DARD website at http://www.dardni.gov.uk/index/ash-dieback.htm including a copy of the draft Strategy. Comments are being taken on the draft strategy until Tuesday 30 April 2013 and should be sent to Rebecca.Hunter@dardni.gov.uk or to: Farm Policy Branch, Room 910, Dundonald House, Upper Newtownards Road, Belfast BT4 3SB]]>