Coillte working to 'establish extent of damage' at Mullaghmeen Forest

The damage to Mullaghmeen Forest is "shocking and very sad" a Westmeath Examiner who sent in the above photo has told us.

"What a shame to see this. I hope in time this beautiful place will reopen to the public. At the moment the entrance into the public car park is blocked by fallen trees. Most of the forest looks to be obliterated."

The Westmeath Examiner contacted Coillte for an update on the condition of Mullaghmeen and their plans for it, and we received this statement.

Coillte Statement

Storm Éowyn has caused significant levels of damage to our forest estate, including Mullaghmeen Forest, and we’re still working to establish the extent of the damage.

Our priority at this time continues to be on supporting the National Emergency Co-ordination Group, power companies and local communities, by clearing individual trees to open road access and helping them to restore power and services to homes and farms as quickly as possible.

Our staff are working hard to clear the park and safety is our absolute priority.

Hazards arising from storm damage may not be visible.

Coillte ask members of the public not to enter forests where there is clear storm damage or where there are clearance operations under way.