Matt Carthy (Cavan-Monaghan, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

We were nowhere close to reaching the 8,000 ha limit last year. It was about 2,400 ha. The latest parliamentary question response I have indicates that it will be about 2,000 ha for 2021. The Minister can understand the concerns that we are not coming close to reaching the 8,000 ha, so there is an attempt to make up figures through another scheme. It is good and laudable from a climate action and biodiversity perspective to encourage farmers to plant woodland but it does not do anything for the forestry and timber sector.

My second concern is about the last point the Minister raised, relating to the proportion of native broadleaf. I agree with and support the concept of trying to reach our 30% target. I have a fear that this would let others off the hook. Does the Minister plan to bring proposals? Can this provision be amended to put a greater onus on Coillte to increase the level of native broadleaf trees in its stock? I understand that it is below 20% at the moment. It is the State's forestry company. Does the Minister have any plans in that regard? Can he give any assurances that native broadleaf trees planted under this scheme will not be used to allow other people to get off the hook with regard to meeting their own obligations?