[PIO] Announcement of the Department of Forests regarding the public holiday of Easter Monday

The Department of Forests of the Ministry of Agriculture, Rural Development and Environment, on the occasion of the "Clean Monday" holiday (18/3/2024), informs and urges the public about the following:

1. When going out into the forests and countryside, avoid cutting or uprooting wild flowers and shrubs, since several of them are strictly protected, while some may be endemic and endangered.
2. Keep the area clean. We collect all the rubbish we create and place it in the dog bins or take it away with us. If we leave it, even in plastic bags, it will be scattered by stray dogs, cats and foxes.
3. It is emphasized that lighting a fire anywhere in the open air is prohibited, except for the preparation of food within the specially authorized and arranged areas for this purpose located in organized excursion and camping areas. Lighting a fire within the State Forest or within 2km of its boundaries constitutes an offence, which, under the Forestry Act 2012, is punishable by imprisonment of up to 10 years or a fine of up to €50,000.00 or both penalties together.
4. In addition, we inform the public that in some areas pine trees are infested by the pine beetle insect, the public should be particularly careful, avoid sitting under or near infested pine trees and avoid contact with the insect's caterpillar. Anyone who comes into contact with the insect caterpillar or its nests and develops a skin problem should seek medical advice and care.

(MS)
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