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Forestry Sector

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 17 May 2022

Tuesday, 17 May 2022

Ceisteanna (769)

Matt Carthy

Ceist:

769. Deputy Matt Carthy asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the projected afforestation levels for 2023; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24659/22]

Amharc ar fhreagra

Freagraí scríofa

The forest sector has an important part to play in meeting the ambitious roadmap towards climate neutrality by removing greenhouse gases from the atmosphere. As outlined in the Climate Action Plan 2021, Ireland aims to afforest 8,000ha annually to 2030.

In 2021, 2,016 hectares of afforestation was achieved in Ireland, of which 41% is broadleaf and 59% is conifer. The Forestry Licensing Dashboard shows that to the end of April this year 812ha have been afforested compared to 625ha in 2021, which is a 20% increase.

Afforestation is a voluntary land use choice for landowners and building confidence among landowners of the benefits of forestry will be key to increasing afforestation rates on recent low trends. The Forestry Programme has a wide range of generous grants and annual premiums that makes forestry an excellent land use option which can complement existing farming enterprises.

The Department and stakeholders are working together to deliver Project Woodland with a view to resolve the current difficulties in the forestry sector and revitalise the creation of forests in Ireland.

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