14 Mr. Callanan asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the dates under the Wildlife Act 1976 when the cutting of hedges is prohibited; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36436/06]

The Wildlife Acts provide generally that it is an offence for a person to cut, grub, burn or otherwise destroy any vegetation growing in any hedge or ditch during the period from 1 March to 31 August subject to certain exemptions for example, where an issue of public safety is involved.

The purpose of these provisions is to protect bird life during the nesting season, to prevent forest fires, and to protect vegetation and wildlife habitats during the months of growth and reproduction.