Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 15 February 2022
945. Deputy Richard Boyd Barrett asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if the forestry industry had an input into the decision making on licensing targets for 2022; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7670/22]
View answerThe Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine issued 4,050 forestry licences last year, which is an increase of 56% on the number issued in 2020, and this was the starting point for developing a more ambitious plan for 2022.
This plan for 5,250 licences in 2022 represents an overall increase in licensing of 30%. It provides for a 100% increase in output for afforestation licences. In addition the overall number of licences in respect of private felling, roads and afforestation will be increased year on year by 48%, while Coillte felling licences will maintain the level they achieved in 2021. The Department will also refocus on the delivery of most approvals from several schemes including Reconstitution and Underplanting Scheme (RUS) (Ash Dieback), the Reconstitution of Woodland Scheme (Frost), the Native Woodland Scheme and a proposed small-scale planting scheme for up to one hectare of native species.
The development of the Licensing Plan was informed by engagement with stakeholder members, particularly in the Forestry Policy Group. This Group has a broad membership with 26 members, with very strong representation from the forestry industry. The Group meets every two months and members are also involved more regularly in Working Groups under Project Woodland. It will, I believe, meet the needs of the sector in terms of felling and roads and will go towards improving confidence in terms of the licensing of afforestation and in delivering on support schemes.
The Department will issue a quarterly update indicating progress to provide ongoing clarity on the licensing plan and to allow monitoring on the delivery of the various key performance indicators (KPIs).
