Andrew Doyle (Wicklow, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

To clarify, the only option in some SACs and acid-sensitive areas where conifer plantations are not permitted is a native woodland scheme. The Deputy was incorrect to state otherwise. In my part of the country, a native woodland scheme is the only option in areas where conifers may not be planted due to acid-sensitive water test results. That may not be the preferred choice of some landowners or farmers.

The mid-term review included an increase in the minimum number of broadleaves from 10% to 15%. Every conifer plantation must comprise at least 15% broadleaves, although not necessarily mean native woodland species. However, hillside sites such as Derrybawn in Glendalough which were cleared of conifers now support certain native species of broadleaves.

The current forestry programme will run until 2020. The Department and I are trying to roll out the next programme and harmonise it with the next Common Agricultural Policy to reflect many measures in the environmental pillar. In many ways, forestry is the low-hanging fruit. Conifers perform better in terms of various standards and qualities regarding economic performance and carbon sequestration whereas broadleaves and native woodlands in particular have the advantage in areas such as biodiversity. We need to be cognisant of marrying those potentially complementary characteristics.

Although I am not an agronomist or silviculture expert, the basic point is that if the soil type is capable of supporting native woodland species, such planting should be allowed. However, although the fact that an area is an SAC precludes conifer plantation, it does not necessarily preclude the planting of native woodland species.

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