Matt Carthy
Ceist:2008. Deputy Matt Carthy asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the afforestation target for broadleaf trees; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [2144/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraWednesday, 19 January 2022
Ceisteanna (2008)
Freagraí scríofa
The Forestry Programme 2014-2020 (extended to end 2022) contains a target of supporting 30% broadleaf planting annually. An average of 27% broadleaves has been planted during the programming period to date.
The earlier years of the programme saw lower rates of broadleaf planting averaging 20% in 2015. I am pleased to say this figure has increased each year reaching 41% in 2021.
This increase has come about as a direct response to incentives put in place by my Department to encourage the planting of broadleaves. This includes increasing the financial supports available from 2018 onwards following the mid-term review of the Forestry Programme. My Department have also launched the Woodland Environmental Fund and the Creation of Woodland on Public Lands Scheme, both of which incentivise the planting of broadleaves and in particular native trees. We will continue to implement these.
The question of future targets for broadleaf planting will be considered as part of the development of the next National Forestry Programme which is currently underway.