Hedge-cutting in August will be permitted under strict conditions should the Heritage Bill receive Dáil approval.

If passed, the bill will introduce a two-year pilot period that will allow cutting on hedges facing roads in August.

The cutting can only take place on the side facing the road and should not involve heavy flails, which could do damage to nesting birds.

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In addition, the bill will permit controlled burning of land in certain areas in March.

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