Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 27 February 2014
220. Deputy Simon Harris asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the position regarding an application to participate in the afforestation scheme in an area (details supplied) in County Wicklow; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9991/14]
View answerThe application under the Native Woodland Establishment Scheme was refused in November 2013 because the site was considered unsuitable for growing broadleaves due to its high elevation, exposure and shallow soil depth.
However, it was also considered that the more productive and sheltered parts of the site may be more suited to the Afforestation Scheme where an alternative species may be considered. On this basis, the applicant has submitted an application under the Afforestation Scheme on a smaller area than in the original application. This application is now under consideration by the Department and a decision will be made and the applicant notified as soon as the necessary enquiries and consultations have been completed.
