The European Communities (Natural Habitats) (Amendment) Regulations 2005, had the effect of making the Forestry Acts subject to the provisions of the Habitat Regulations. In relation to afforestation, all applications are assessed in accordance with the provisions of the European Communities (Environmental Impact Assessment) (Amendment) Regulations, 2001. This includes screening for EIA.
Applications for a felling licence are made in accordance with a procedure laid down by the Forestry Act, 1946 (Part IV) Regulations, 1949. The follow up inspection procedures for approval of licence applications include an assessment of the environmental considerations for the sites in question. This can entail referral of the application to the various consultation bodies such as National Parks and Wildlife Service, Fisheries Boards and Local Authorities for their consideration and recommendations if applicable. Any recommendations made are taken into account by the Forest Service in its decision to grant or withhold a licence.
Aerial fertilisation of forests must now be carried out under licence. New Regulations were made in November 2006 to provide for a statutory licensing system for the aerial application of fertilisers to forests. The Regulations provide for consultation with prescribed bodies and prior assessment where appropriate.
The Forest Service of my Department continues to keep all of its activities under review to ensure compliance with the habitats legislation.