From Terry Thuillier.
WHAT a sad state of affairs when the Jersey Trees for Life group are denied their £20,000 funding for next year (JEP, 00 December).

It is appreciated that in the present economic climate certain cuts in States expenditure are inevitable. However, when a charity who are doing such good and essential work in improving our future landscape by planting trees, etc, is singled out in this way, it is deeply concerning.

When everyone is talking about climate change and the environment, we should be actively encouraging the planting of trees and this particular cut is totally inappropriate and not thought through.

In some ways it is a soft target and reminds me of the time when the late Deputy Norman Le Brocq had his grant for the repair of roadside walls quashed in order to save a few pounds, only this is far worse.

I understand that the Trees for Life group has planted some 9,000 trees and shrubs this year and are to be congratulated and thanked on a remarkable achievement.

In terms of cost effectiveness for our future environment and landscape, I cannot imagine a better example. This money must be found, as it is very discouraging for all concerned and sends out the wrong message.