Coillte has announced a €500,000 plan to restore an area of native woodland in County Sligo, as part of its new strategy committed to protecting Ireland's natural habitats.

The forestry firm's 'Our Seeds for Nature' initiative includes a list of commitments for nature and biodiversity that exceed current work to support and fast track the implementation of the National Biodiversity Action Plan.

The strategy for Sligo will see development to the Hazelwood Forest, including a 'Special Area of Conservation' on the banks of Lough Gill.

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Deborah Meghen, Coillte's Director of Forest Stewardship, Risk and Advocacy, believes the new initiative is a clear signal that both private and public sectors want to work together to ensure Ireland's natural habitats are protected now for future generations.

Speaking at the Biodiversity Conference on Wednesday 20 February, she said: "Today marks a positive step towards strengthening Coillte's and Ireland's commitment to restoring and protecting our most fragile habitats. Coillte has been the custodian of some of the most important biodiversity sites in Ireland, over the last 30 years and we take this responsibility very seriously. 

"We have managed major projects that have seen up to €20 million invested in restoring and managing Ireland's key biodiversity sites, and our latest investment into Hazelwood will see the forest being restored to a more natural state, providing a significant boost to the natural environment and local economy."

(JG)