Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 1 March 2022
867. Deputy Peter Burke asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the schemes that are available for farmers to plant forestry on one hectare; the terms and conditions of these schemes; when they will be open for applications; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11687/22]
View answerThe Department of Agriculture, Food and Marine provides a range of grants and premiums for the planting of new forests under the Afforestation Scheme with associated terms and conditions. Scheme conditions apply to technical standards such as the species of tree proposed, fencing specifications and a range of setback distance from environmental features. Other conditions relate to payment eligibility and are available on my Department's website.
All areas of 0.1 ha or greater are eligible for this scheme which includes areas of one hectare of either broadleaves or conifers or a mix of both. Currently, all new forests planted that are 0.1 ha or greater require a licence from my Department.
The Government is also progressing through the houses of the Oireachtas a legislative change which will allow the planting of up to one hectare of native woodland without a licence when planted as part of a scheme. The terms and conditions of this scheme will be drafted if the legislation is successfully passed by the Oireachtas. My Department will consult with stakeholders before any such scheme is drafted and will be screened for a Strategic Environmental Assessment and Appropriate Assessment.
