Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 7 November 2023
943. Deputy Jackie Cahill asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if farmers who developed riparian zones next to rivers are entitled to ongoing premiums on that land; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [48246/23]
View answerThe new Forestry Programme's Afforestation Scheme for the 2023-2027 period opened for applications on the 6th of September. It offers landowners a choice of 12 Forest Types which cover a broad range of planting options. The Afforestation Scheme farmers are entitled to Premiums if they plant forests adjacent to riparian zones. One of the new Forest Types introduced in the Forestry Programme is Forest for Water (with a premium of €1,142 per hectare for a period of 20 years), this new Forest Type is designed to address specific needs to help Ireland achieve the water quality objectives as set out in the River Basin Management Plan for Ireland and to help protect drinking water sources.
In addition, the new Native Tree Area scheme has been launched and includes a specific measure in regards the creation of native forest for the protection of water. The creation of native forests with undisturbed water setbacks that can be used to deliver meaningful ecosystem services that protect and enhance water quality and aquatic ecosystems. Under this scheme an applicant can now apply to plant up to 1 ha of native trees, without a afforestation licence and will receive a premium of €2,284 per hectare for 10 years.
As part of any afforestation project 15% of the area can be left unplanted and will be paid grants and premiums. These are referred to as Areas of Biodiversity Enhancement (ABE). This 15% allowance for ABE includes areas occupied by hedgerows, setback areas from roads, dwelling houses and setbacks from rivers. The premium payments are paid annually for the duration of the premium term which for the last programme was 15 years and for the new programme it is 20 years for farmers.
Further payments for Ecosystem Services premiums for existing forest owners whose forests adjoin water setback are included in the new Forestry Programme. These include the Environmental Enhancement Scheme which provides for a grant of €1200 per hectare and a new Payment for Ecosystem Services (PES) premium of €150 / ha / year, with a 7 year duration and the Climate Resilient Reforestation: Reforestation for Biodiversity and Water which provides for a grant €2,500 per ha per treated hectare and a PES premium payment (private landowners only) PES 6 of €350 per ha.
