Forestry Sector

Monday, 11 September 2023

Questions (1256)

Claire Kerrane

Question:

1256. Deputy Claire Kerrane asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the number of permanent full-time equivalent staff in the forestry division within his Department, by grade, role and function; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37623/23]

View answer

Written answers

Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine

We need to compile the numbers required by the Deputy and will revert later this week with the information.

The following deferred reply was received under Standing Order 51.

My Department has 179 staff members engaged in work relating to the ongoing administration and development of the Irish forestry sector. The functions carried out include the support of forestry schemes under the new Forestry Programme 2023 – 2027 including Afforestation, Forest Roads and Woodland Improvement schemes and the granting of licences for felling and reforestation. Staff are also engaged in promotion activities aimed at increasing farmer participation in forestry, increasing species diversity as well as research and training. The following table shows the grades/roles and numbers of Department officers currently reporting to the Director of Forestry:

Grade/Role	Number
Assistant Principal	7
Clerical Officer	41
Director	1
Engineer Grade 3	2
Executive Officer	39
Ecologist	7
Forestry Inspector Grade 1	12
Forestry Inspector Grade 2	10
Forestry Inspector Grade 3	42
Higher Executive Officer	15
Principal Officer	1
Senior Inspector	2

My Department is committed to making sure that a skilled, motivated workforce is in in place to meet business needs. The Department uses Workforce Planning to identify and address these requirements.