Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 24 September 2008
1591 Deputy John Deasy asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food his policy regarding the issuing of felling licences in respect of forest plantations in private ownership and the mandatory replanting of that land; the extent of ministerial discretion in this respect; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30490/08]
Amharc ar fhreagraIn the new Forestry Bill, which will replace the 1946 Forestry Act, it is proposed to take a more flexible approach regarding the question of replanting after harvesting. However, the general principle of replanting after felling will remain in order to ensure that the national forest estate is maintained.
Under the Forestry Act 1946, it is illegal to fell a tree of any age or uproot trees under 10 years of age without a felling licence. Felling of large scale afforestation is covered under a General Felling Licence which, under the Act, carries a compulsory requirement to replant the cleared area. Felling of small scale forestry or individual trees is covered by a Limited Felling Licence under which a replanting condition may, at the discretion of the Minister, be attached to the licence. The replanting condition contained in a Limited Felling Licence can apply to any suitable land owned by the licensee on the date the licence is granted; it does not have to apply specifically to the land where the trees are felled.
The current policy is to apply a replanting condition in all but the most exceptional cases in order to ensure that the national forest estate is maintained, and that the many economic and environmental benefits that our forests provide are sustained for future generations.
