Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 3 March 2021
1047. Deputy Niamh Smyth asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if he will outline the criteria and eligibility terms for schemes (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11244/21]
Amharc ar fhreagraMy Department offers an attractive suite of options for landowners to plant forestry as part of the Afforestation Grant and Premium scheme, to suit most land types and scenarios. The main Afforestation Scheme offers generous establishment grants and up to 15 years premiums payable to the landowner. A range of support schemes is also available for more specialised situations. More information may be found on the forestry pages of my Department’s website on gov.ie.
The eligibility requirements are quite open, a person must own or have a long-term lease on the land to be planted and must be over 18 years of age, with a current tax clearance certificate at annual payment stage. Forestry offers a viable opportunity for income diversification on farms and I would encourage any interested landowner to examine all options carefully and see which suit them. They should also speak to their advisor directly who can advise on best to approach it.
