Significant replanting programme for Barrow Track after tree felling by Waterways Ireland
The Department of Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht has said
A significant replanting programme is being addressed for the Barrow Track after tree felling works by Waterways Ireland.
Waterways Ireland previously issued an apology for an "unacceptable oversight" in felling trees in Carlow along the Barrow Track.
Councillors have said that the State agency "could do a better job'" communicating their works after the "destruction" caused by the trees being felled.
The trees were cut down with heavy machinery along a stretch of the River Barrow between Rathvinden and Milford in recent months.
In a statement to Carlow Live, the Department of Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht said: "The National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) of this Department began investigating the matter at the end of February 2019 once it was made aware of the issue.
"The NPWS has directed all works to be stopped and all machinery to be moved off site. This has been complied with.
"This investigation is on-going and liaison with Waterways Ireland, which deeply regrets the incident, is continuing.
"Discussions with Waterways Ireland is also addressing appropriate redress and mitigation, including a significant replanting programme.
"As this is an ongoing and active investigation the Department is precluded from further comment at this time."