I propose to take Questions Nos. 121 and 122 together.
Agroforestry is a land use option that is positive for animal welfare, improves biodiversity, reduces on farm emissions, and can prevent nutrient runoff when situated in strategic locations. In addition, it is possible to grow timber with little impact on existing agricultural production. Agroforestry was first introduced to Ireland’s forestry support schemes in 2015 and the measure mainly targeted silvopastoral systems which combine forestry and pasture, including grazing and the growing of fodder.
The new forestry Programme provides for increased incentives for landowners to convert some of their agricultural land to agroforestry. However, the conversion of existing forest land to agroforestry is not a policy objective of my Department, nor is it a strategic action in my Departments Forestry Strategy Implementation Plan.
Owners of ash forests affected by ash dieback are treated as a special case and my Department has allowed, on a case by case basis, and in accordance with my Departments Felling and Reforestation Policy (2017), the conversion of ash forests devastated by ash dieback to be replanted under an agroforestry regime. There are no plans to extend this provision to other forest types.
