Pippa Hackett (Green Party) | Oireachtas source

It is not straightforward. As the Deputy said, on one hand, we have targets. Ultimately, if it is all wrapped up under climate action, we need a bit of balance in terms of what we do with peat and trees. We obviously need to plant more trees and extract less peat. Both of those deliver. At this particular time, it is incredibly frustrating for people on the ground.

To get back to the trees, the point the Deputy made at the start about communication was important. If farmers are submitting their licence applications and then finding they are not even getting the feedback, that is just not acceptable. If it is an issue, it is something we certainly need to address in terms of keeping farmers and landowners in the loop on their own licence. Others will say that they do get the information but I accept that might not be the case for everyone. I can assure the Deputy that I am fully aware of the frustration. The Deputy, everyone and I all get it. I have some forestry myself. I am thankful that I am actually not at the stage of requiring a licence.