AQW 43584/22-27

Mr John Stewart
Ulster Unionist Party
East Antrim

Tabled Date: 31/03/2026
Answered On Date: 09/04/2026
Priority Written: No

Question:
To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs whether any assessment has been made of the enforcement of guidelines for roadside hedge cutting during the closed season.

Answer:

DAERA has an inspection regime in place to protect hedgerows through the new Farm Sustainability Standards (FSS) which were introduced from 1 January 2026. In addition, any farmer or member of the public can report hedge cutting during the closed season to the Department. Where DAERA receives a report of hedge cutting during the closed period, it is investigated and if a breach is identified, the farmer will incur a FSS penalty. The FSS will be subject to periodic review.