Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 17 January 2024
1164. Deputy Michael Fitzmaurice asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine when he intends to launch the native woodland conservation scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [56366/23]
Amharc ar fhreagraI am pleased to report that support for the Native Woodland Conservation Scheme will continue to be offered through the new €1.3 billion funded Forestry Programme 2023-2027. This Scheme is one of a number of measures aimed specifically at promoting the proactive protection and expansion of Ireland’s native woodland resource.
The Native Woodland Conservation Scheme promotes the appropriate restoration of existing native woodland, through the provision of financial support to forest owners towards the cost of appropriate works. A grant of up to €6,000 per ha will be offered to private forest owners as well as an annual seven year Payment for Ecosystem Services of €500 per ha.
My Department intends to make the Scheme available through our iNET system which will allow registered foresters to make online applications for forest owners and monitor the status of their applications, at any given time. The technical development required in iNET is close to completion.
I intend therefore, to launch the Native Woodland Conservation Scheme for new applications in the coming weeks and a circular on this matter will then issue to all registered foresters. Forest owners who currently have an application with my Department will be contacted directly in due course.
