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- Ελληνικά
The Forestry Department of the Ministry of Agriculture, Rural Development and Environment along with the wishes for a Happy Easter wishes to remind the public, because in recent years illegal felling of trees has been observed, with the intention to burn them in the traditional "Lambratzia", that such actions constitute an offence.
The Forestry Department reminds that the cutting of forest and some ornamental trees, wherever they are located, requires written permission from the Forestry Department. It stresses that no permission will be given for the cutting of trees to be used in "Lambradzia".
According to the Forestry Law, the illegal cutting of trees is punishable by a fine of up to €5,000 or imprisonment for up to one year, or both penalties together. Local Authorities, organised groups and concerned individuals are invited to immediately report any incident of tree cutting to the local forestry offices or the Police, so that it can be investigated and the offenders can be prosecuted.
Also, due to the unseasonably high temperatures and the prolonged drought, the risk of fires exploding and spreading is very high, so everyone's attention is required. Particular attention is required from owners of holiday homes near forest areas, as well as from farmers during their various activities both in holiday homes and in the countryside in general. The use of fire and tools or agricultural machinery that produce sparks or flames should be avoided altogether. It is also forbidden to throw lit cigarette butts or matches in the open air and in forest areas.
Unfortunately, in recent years there has been a growing trend to use fireworks or other dangerous objects (firecrackers, etc.) containing explosives to celebrate the Resurrection of Christ. It is stressed that the purchase and use of such dangerous materials requires purchase, possession and use permits from the Mines Department and the Police. The illegal purchase, possession and use of such hazardous materials is prohibited, as it constitutes a serious risk of causing fires, and offenders will be prosecuted.
It is emphasized that lighting a fire anywhere in the open air is prohibited, with the exception of the preparation of food, within the specially permitted 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 is an offence, which under the Forestry Act 2012 is punishable by imprisonment for up to 10 years or a fine of up to €50,000 or both penalties together.
In addition, the public is urged when going out into the forests and countryside to avoid cutting or uprooting wild flowers and shrubs, as several of them are endemic or endangered and, as such, are strictly protected.
Finally, anyone who notices smoke or fire in or near the forest is requested to inform the nearest Forestry Station without delay or to call 1407 (Forestry Department) or 112.
(ΕΠ/EΑθ)
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