Mayo councillor explains why ivy on trees is a problem

AN increase in the number of storms is highlighting a big problem with ivy on trees, Councillor John O'Hara told a meeting of Ballina Municipal District.

It's especially an issue with trees overhanging roads, he said, and if something isn't done there will be a fatality, he claimed.

The matter is being looked at, said Teresa Durkin, senior executive engineer, although she added that landowners will have to be spoken to as well as they will have to cut trees back too.

The problem, answered Councillor O'Hara, is that a lot of farmers can't afford to cut the trees back along main roads.

“The council will have to take the bull by the horns on this one. It needs to be addressed.”

Ms. Durkin said they are endeavouring to address trees on the council's side of the road with the limited budget available.