46 recreational forests remain closed after Storm Éowyn

Coillte is urging the public to avoid entering closed forest areas or attempting to access sites affected by storm damage.

The organisation has warned that forests impacted by Storm Éowyn present significant safety hazards, including unstable trees and the presence of heavy machinery during clean-up operations.

Currently, 46 of Coillte’s 260 recreational forests remain closed due to ongoing safety concerns.

Clean-up work continues across affected areas following the extensive damage caused by Storm Éowyn, which hit Ireland on 24th January. The storm brought unprecedented destruction to productive, biodiversity-rich, and recreational forests.

It is estimated that around 24,000 hectares of forest were damaged nationwide, with nearly half of that area located on Coillte-managed land.

A spokesperson for Coillte said, “We understand the importance of these spaces to local communities and outdoor enthusiasts, and we are working hard to reopen them as soon as it is safe to do so.”

“We ask the public for continued patience and understanding as we carry out this vital work. Updates and reopening timelines will be shared here on our website and on Coillte social media channels as they become available,” added the spokesperson.

Minister visits storm-damaged forest

Meanwhile, Minister of State for Forestry, Horticulture and Farm Safety, Michael Healy-Rae TD, visited a forest damaged by Storm Éowyn at Curraun, near Mohill in County Leitrim on Wednesday.

The Minister was in the northwest to officially open a timber marketing event in Sligo organised by Teagasc, in collaboration with the Department and Forest Industries Ireland.

During his visit, the Minister reaffirmed his commitment to supporting affected forest owners.