Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 20 September 2023
743. Deputy Claire Kerrane asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine how his Department will communicate to key stakeholders to ensure the forestry programme is fully understood; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [39857/23]
View answerA focussed and dedicated Communications and Promotion Campaign to inform stakeholders about the new 2023-2027 Forestry Programme is planned for the coming weeks.
My Department’s presence at the National Ploughing Championships this week is forestry-themed, with a dedicated area for promotion of the Programme.
An advertising campaign, which will include radio and print media, has also commenced this week.
A Farm Forestry Booklet and a grants and premium calculator is available on the Department’s website at: gov.ie - Forestry Grants and Schemes (www.gov.ie). This link also contains an FAQ document on the new Afforestation Scheme, which launched on the 6th of September.
Teagasc, in conjunction with my Department, is also holding an information webinar to promote the forest creation opportunities that are available in the new Programme. This webinar will be held on Tuesday 26 September, and is open to everyone. The webinar will also provide details of the upcoming nationwide series of in-person information meetings being held in early October. These important events will provide key details and insights for farmers and landowners considering new forest creation.
In addition to the above, my Department officials have already held information sessions with registered foresters, ecologists and with forestry representatives. Focused training sessions in relation to the new requirements will be held for foresters and ecologists in the near future.
Last week we also launched a public call for proposals for innovative projects to support and highlight the multi-functional benefits of forestry. This process is open to all, and has a particular emphasis on projects that will promote schemes under the new Forestry Programme, with a particular focus on engagement with farmers, existing forest owners and other landowners.
It is my belief that this campaign will inform all stakeholders of the opportunities available under the new Forestry Programme, and will bring a new impetus to planting and sustainable forest management.
