Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 19 May 2021
180. Deputy Verona Murphy asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine further to Parliamentary Question No. 1107 of 28 April 2021, his views on whether most of the 4,500 hectares will not convert to planting given the length of time to obtain the approval which forces landowners to opt for other forms of income from the proposed area; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26705/21]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Department is committed to addressing the backlog in licences and has in place an initiative under Project Woodland to improve the rate of licensing. The target is for 4,500 new licences this year which is a 75% increase on last year.
As to the issue of the conversion of licences to planting, approved afforestation licence applications are valid for three years, from the date the licence decision issues (allowing 28 days for appeal), during which planting may commence.
There are several reasons why an applicant might postpone planting or even decide not to plant. These could include changes in personal circumstances, change of land ownership or simply a change of mind in how an applicant’s land will be farmed.
Other applications are speculative with a view to increasing property values with an approved site. Some other landowners may decide to lease their land. Of course, delays in receiving a licence may also be a factor. Departmental officials are in regular contact with industry stakeholders and this issue is raised with them.
Whatever the reasons, it is very clear that unused afforestation licences of this scale are not sustainable. It is in everybody's interest that planting is substantially increased. The resources required to process such licences are significant. There is an onus on all applicants and foresters to ensure that all applications will proceed to planting once decided. Similarly, of course, there is an onus on the Department to process them as quickly as possible.
Working with Minister of State Pippa Hackett who has overall responsibility for forestry, I remain hopeful that the framework now in place under Project Woodland will address our current difficulties and will result in a licensing system which meets the needs of new applicants. I encourage those that have approval to go ahead to plant and to unlock the generous annual premiums available to forest owners.
