Landowners Fined For Burning Vegetation In Wicklow

Two people in County Wicklow have been fined for burning vegetation out of season.

The case involved the burning of living vegetation during the closed season – an offence under Section 40 of the Wildlife Acts 1976-2018. 

The case was brought before Naas District Court, County Kildare on Monday 3rd October.

Mr. Kenneth Balfe and Mrs. Pamela Balfe, landowners at Gap Road in Lacken both pleaded guilty to the offence and the Judge imposed fines of €1,000 on both defendants.

A National Parks and Wildlife Service Ranger outlined the evidence to the court, stating that on 17th April 2021, he responded to reports from concerned members of the public that scrub and trees were being burned at Lacken.

The Ranger travelled to the area where he could see smoke and flames beginning to arise from Gorse bushes. The Ranger talked with the landowners who admitted starting the fire, but denied any wrongdoing.