Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 9 February 2017
224. Deputy Michael Moynihan asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine his views on the proposals that Irish farmers with designated land have with regard to resolving land devaluation issues; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6579/17]
Amharc ar fhreagraI have met with Irish Farmers with Designated land (IFDL) on several occasions and I am very aware of their concerns, specifically in relation to land devaluation. They have also made a detailed written submission to me, setting out their proposals for addressing this issue, and this submission is under review.
The main issue for the farmers concerned relates to the devaluation of land as a result of designation, and specifically designation for the Hen Harrier. In that respect, the restrictions arising as regards afforestation and construction of wind farms have proved particularly contentious. Designation of these areas is a matter in the first instance for the Department of Arts, Heritage, Regional, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs and my Department has raised the matter in recent discussions with that Department, as part of the development of a Threat Response Plan for the Hen Harrier.
In the meantime, I have already provided for significant payments to affected farmers via the GLAS hen harrier action, and a new locally-led scheme for farmers in affected areas will also open to recruitment later this year.
