Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 29 November 2022
772. Deputy Michael Healy-Rae asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the date ]he expects to issue financial approvals for afforestation in the next forestry programme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [58833/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe draft Forest Strategy and Forest Strategy Implementation Plan which encompasses the Forestry Programme has been open to public consultation which closes today the 29th November, 2022
In regard to the Programme, I am pleased to advise that I have secured a package of €1.3 billion for forestry which will support the biggest and best-funded Forestry Programme ever in Ireland.
This funding guarantees continued payments to those forest owners who planted under the current Afforestation Scheme and who are still in receipt of premiums and offers new and improved rates to those who undertake planting and sustainable forest management under the new Programme.
The Programme is subject to state aid approval from the European Commission and my Department is actively engaging with the Commission to progress towards that approval.
In this connection, it is our priority to clarify the dates around when financial approvals, at the new rates. will issue and we will do so as soon as possible.
