Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 7 November 2017
931. Deputy Tom Neville asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the recourse available to a person that is not in a financial position to replant forestry after it was cut; if the time permitted to replant the forestry can be extended; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [46401/17]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Forestry Act 2014 sets out the legislation governing the felling of trees, the licences required, offences and penalties for breaches of the legislation. My Department operates policy and procedures in relation to tree felling which are underpinned by the provisions of the Act.
In May 2017 my Department published its “Felling and Reforestation Policy” document which aims to provide a consolidated source of information on the legal and regulatory framework relating to tree felling. Information on the felling licence application process is also described. This document also describes those limited scenarios where the permanent removal of trees is envisaged, for example for the protection of certain natural habitats and species.
With regard to extending the deadline on the replanting obligation these requests are considered by my Department on a case by case basis.
