Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 18 April 2023
1136. Deputy Holly Cairns asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine to meet with an organisation (details supplied) concerning issues in the forestry licensing system; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17496/23]
View answerThe Deputy will know that the issue with licensing has been substantially resolved and that actions to achieve this resolution were discussed in detail with all stakeholders over an extended period through the framework of Project Woodland in particular.
Improved licence output was achieved through process efficiencies and enhancement, as well as through a significant investment in resources. Seven hundred and two afforestation licences representing over 4,972 hectares of afforestation was approved in 2022. In relation to felling, overall felling licence output to the end of 2022 was 3,293 licences. This represents 9.6 million cubic metres of wood, more than twice the forecast harvest for the second year running.
Communication with stakeholders, and in particular with registered foresters who submit licence applications, is central to a fully functioning licensing system. This communication takes the form of circulars and meetings and these occur on a regular basis and I am confident that the views of all forestry stakeholders are taken account of and acknowledged in the delivery of the licensing system.
