Merlin Woods mediation talks have begun

Following proceedings before Mr Justice Humphreys, both parties were asked to engage in discussions, with any outstanding disagreements to return before the court.

Both had been asked to agree variations to the injunction, which would otherwise be argued before the High Court and mediation talks are now taking place.

The issue was raised at this month's Galway City Council meeting, where councillors questioned the cost of the proceedings and what safety works could be carried out following recent storm damage.

Chief Executive Leonard Cleary said the council remained confident it had followed "the letter of the law" but acknowledged the legal proceedings would come at a cost.

Friends of Merlin Woods opposes the clear-felling of standing trees while the council maintains that an independent arborist recommended harvesting the area following Storm Éowyn with plans to replant native broadleaf trees.

Meanwhile, more than 40 local organisations have backed Friends of Merlin Woods, calling for the removal of fallen and storm-damaged trees only, alongside gradual replanting using sustainable woodland management practices.

The Galway City Community Network warned that current plans could see 46% of the woodland clear-felled and raised concerns about biodiversity loss.

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