Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 22 November 2023
131. Deputy Claire Kerrane asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine to provide an update on the availability of grants for the promotion of forestry; what consideration has been given to supporting smaller groups and co-ops with promoting forestry in their local areas, particularly where these organisations are providing training and advisory services to farmers and forestry owners; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [51307/23]
Amharc ar fhreagraAn Open Call for Proposals for Forestry Promotion Projects for 2023/2024 was launched on 14 September 2023. There was an excellent response to the call with 53 proposals received from 42 separate applicants by the closing date of 16 October 2023. The applicants included representatives from across the forestry sector and beyond, from both large and small organisations as well as from individuals.
An evaluation committee formed to examine the applications met on 25 October 2023 to deliberate on the applications. The results of those deliberations are currently being finalised, with letters of offer expected to issue shortly.
