Martin Browne
Ceist:741. Deputy Martin Browne asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if forestry grants and premia are to be increased through the measures announced in Budget 2023. [52827/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraTuesday, 25 October 2022
Ceisteanna (741)
Freagraí scríofa
As the Deputy may be aware, the draft Forest Strategy Implementation Plan which includes the next Forestry Programme for the period 2023 – 2027 is currently undergoing a period of public consultation.
Having secured an additional €12 million in Budget 2023 for Forestry to reach a total budget of €112m, the Department is currently engaged in detailed discussions with the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform to agree new grant and premium rates for the next Programme, in order to incentivise the necessary levels of planting for Ireland to meet its afforestation targets. This continues a dialogue which started earlier this year.
While discussions in this area are ongoing, once concluded, the Department aims to provide this information regarding grants and premium rates at the earliest opportunity prior to the launch of the Forestry Programme for the period 2023 - 2027.