Gerry Reynolds
Ceist:291 Mr. G. Reynolds asked the Minister for the Environment and Local Government the plans he has to introduce legislation requiring planning permission from persons who are planting forestry on lands. [25451/00]
Written Answers. - Proposed Legislation.
Current planning thresholds for forestry are 70 hectares in the case of initial afforestation and ten hectares in the case of the replacement of broadleaf high forest by conifer species. Environmental impact assessment is also mandatory in excess of these thresholds. The intention is to provide for a reduction in these thresholds in the detailed regulations now being prepared to give effect to the Planning and Development Act, 2000. The regulations require the approval of both Houses of the Oireachtas and draft regulations will be submitted early in 2001.