Oireachtas Joint and Select Committees
Wednesday, 8 February 2023
Select Committee on Agriculture, Food and the Marine
Estimates for Public Services 2023
Vote 30 - Agriculture, Food and the Marine (Revised)
Charlie McConalogue (Donegal, Fianna Fail)
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In terms of Coillte being able to directly benefit from premiums, that was the situation that was clarified in 2004, I believe. We have been clear regarding the fact that in terms of how Coillte is supported going forward to do afforestation we want that to be working directly with the State and with farmers. We are exploring ways that can happen with Coillte and we will also engage as appropriate with the Commission around state aid clarifications on that and the potential of flexibility there. I do not have the up-to-date position as of this week regarding any recent engagement with the Commission but we have been clear that the way we will go about this is seeking that clarification and our objective being the State working closely with Coillte.