The lawmaker of the Liberal Democratic Party Iurie Apostolachi said that Moldova needs to have its forestry sector reformed as the wooded areas are in a deplorable condition. He told a news conference that the forests are illegally cut in 19 districts of Moldova as there are no foresters and guards, IPN reports.

Iurie Apostolachi said the State Forestry Agency “Moldsilva”, which is responsible for policies and regulations in the field, should be reformed in order to remove the duties that are similar to those of the environment authorities. The Agency includes 16 forestry enterprises, natural reserves and the forest management and research institute. These units employ over 5,000 persons.

Under the Forestry Code, the personnel of the forestry service must have specialized education or experience in the field. But of the 25 managers only 17 have higher education in forestry. Thus, the quality of works carried out by the forestry service’s units greatly depends on the qualification of the managers and foresters. Only 10% of the 1,085 foresters have higher education.

The MP suggested creating the National Council for Forestry and Hunting under the Government as soon as possible. Its members should represent all the people from outside the forestry sector.