Pearse Doherty (Donegal South West, Sinn Fein)
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175. To ask the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine further to Parliamentary Question No. 210 of 13 March 2014, the situation regarding forestry that may have been affected by sea water where the resulting damage may not be evident for years to come; if such cases will remain eligible under his departmental schemes; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14603/14]

Simon Coveney (Cork South Central, Fine Gael)
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Forest Holders who suspect that the productive potential of their forest property has been impacted by sea water should consult with forestry professionals either in Teagasc or with their local professional forester. A qualified forestry professional can meet with owners on-the-ground and advise on the most appropriate course of action (if any) depending on the extent of the flooding\salt spray that has occurred. Where damage is not evident at this stage, premium payments will continue to be paid.

Where damage to trees is evident, the owner must notify the Forest Service straight away so that a remedial plan of action can be put in place. Owners with damaged forests who fail to report this to the Forest Service run the risk of having a debt raised against them. In these cases the Department may seek to recoup any premium payment or grant which has been paid to the forest owner in relation to the plantation in question.