Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 20 September 2023
726. Deputy Cathal Crowe asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if he will devise a scheme with improved compensation for those with plantations impacted by ash dieback; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [39607/23]
View answer733. Deputy Willie O'Dea asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if any financial assistance is available to farmers who need to remove ash trees infected with ash dieback; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [39775/23]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 726 and 733 together.
I am pleased to state that the reconstitution scheme for ash dieback is open for applications under the new Forestry Programme 2023 - 2027. This scheme includes the following enhanced features:
• 100% increase in the site clearance grant rate, from €1,000 to €2,000;
• Enhanced replanting grant rates under the new Forestry Programme 2023-2027;
• Those applicants whose sites are still in premium will continue to receive the premium due for the remaining years;
• In addition, for those in receipt of farmer rate of premium, a top-up premium equal to the difference between the equivalent forestry type and the existing premium will be paid. This will be calculated for the remaining years left in premium and paid in a single sum.
In addition, my colleague, Minister of State Pippa Hackett, has tasked an independent group to review existing Department supports for Ash Dieback. The group had a remit to review the existing and previous supports available to landowners with ash plantations funded under the National Forestry Programme and to engage with relevant stakeholders to seek their views on the current supports for ash forest owners. The group has just presented the Minister of State with its report, which she is now considering.
