I propose to take Questions Nos. 294, 295 and 296 together.
Any proposed planting of trees that is 0.1 ha or over in area is currently considered afforestation and must have an afforestation licence which must be applied for by a registered forester. The planting of small numbers of trees in an area less than 0.1 hectare is however is not a consented development and does not require to be treated as a plan or project under the Habitats Directive.
This means that tree planting in agri-environment schemes, such as REAP, are below this threshold and do not require a forestry licence. REAP participants and REAP Advisors who have submitted applications on behalf of their clients will receive sufficient training and support to allow them to carry out all works involved in the scheme including tree planting where it is identified as a beneficial complementary action.
Plans by my colleague Minister of State Hackett to explore the introduction of a scheme to promote, at scale, the planting of trees along riparian margins are at an early stage. Any scheme development will involve the normal consultation process with relevant stakeholders.