We’ll create ‘Fortress Ireland:’ O’Neill

She says the move is necessary to combat Ash dieback disease.

“The widespread nature of infection is disappointing, but at this stage we are still regarding the disease as one caused by imported plants and not spread within the wider environment,” she said. Already, statutory Plant Health Notices have been issued requiring destruction of affected ash saplings and plant debris.

“The focus now must be on surveillance over the summer. We are co-operating closely with authorities in the South on a ‘Fortress Ireland’-type approach, and with authorities in Britain,” she added. “We consulted stakeholders about our approach as outlined in the draft All-Ireland Chalara Control Strategy, which addresses the risk of the disease becoming established; supports the need for research on how disease spreads and resistance develops; encourages stakeholder and public engagement; and addresses the need for resilience should the disease become established,” she continued. The Minister said her Department has already started its 2013 survey.