Pippa Hackett (Green Party) | Oireachtas source

Ash dieback has been a significant issue for more than a decade. We have had two schemes, neither of which really had restrictions on tree types. Even now, some of the former ash dieback plantations have been changed to broadleaves or conifers. That choice lies with the landowner.

Unfortunately, state aid rules will come into play. This is not the Department using them as an excuse not to act. Rather, it is the reality of us when considering any package of measures that we can use to support farmers affected by ash dieback. I intend to support them and, if the Deputy gets a chance to read the report, he will see that there are 13 recommendations. The majority of those are in hand and we can work on those straightaway, but there are three relating to supports, including financial supports, in respect of which we have to explore the state aid rules to see if we can find a mechanism within their parameters to support farmers. The rules are clear. If we could have provided supports to date, we would have. We must re-examine the rules and see whether there are possibilities within them. Even if we had the money, we would not be allowed to just pay it out. Unfortunately, it is a requirement of being a member state of the EU that we have to align with state aid rules. However, my officials are working hard on the matter and, as soon as possible, I hope to introduce an implementation plan to deal with all of the report’s recommendations, including financial ones.