Files sent to DPP over two incidents of tree felling in Salthill

Separate files have been sent to the Director of Public Prosecutions in the illegal felling of mature trees in Salthill Park and off Dr Mannix Road last year.

Gardaí have confirmed to the Galway City Tribune that suspects have been identified in the separate incidents which occurred in July and October of last year.

If prosecuted and found guilty, those responsible face up to two years in jail.

Their investigation into a third incident – in which up to 40 trees were illegally felled at Lough Rusheen Park last February – is ongoing.

A Garda spokesperson confirmed that following complaints into the felling of four trees – believed to be up to 60 years old – in Salthill Park in July 2016, an investigation was carried out and a suspect identified.

A file has been sent to the DPP, who will decide if there is enough evidence to prosecute for criminal damage.

A formal complaint was made to the Gardaí by Galway City Council over the felling, which is understood to have been carried out by a private contractor on the instructions of a third party.

The penalty for criminal damage and illegal felling of trees can include imprisonment for up to two years.
For the rest of this story, see this week’s Galway City Tribune. Buy a digital edition of this week’s paper here, or download the app for Android or iPhone.