National Parks and Wildlife Service

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 18 October 2022

Tuesday, 18 October 2022

Ceisteanna (327)

Carol Nolan

Ceist:

327. Deputy Carol Nolan asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage if all farmers with special areas of conservation lands will be entitled to apply for the scheme and be admitted to National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) farm plan scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [51150/22]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister of State at the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage

All farmers are encouraged to make applications for the NPWS Farm Plan Scheme. However, as with any scheme, numbers will be limited and it is not possible to guarantee every applicant will be accepted. Applications from farmers with designated lands, including Special Areas of Conservation, Special Protection Areas and Natural Heritage Areas, are prioritised for consideration.

It is my intention to make an open call for further applications in early 2023.