Claire Kerrane (Roscommon-Galway, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

What are the average turnaround times for felling licences applications? How long are applicants waiting to get those licences approved?

On the wider issue of licences, the Minister of State referenced the fact that the new forestry programme has not yet been approved. I ask her to update the House in that regard. I welcome her remarks on licensing and publishing something in that regard. It is important. Many farmers have lost faith in forestry. It is important that we get the forestry programme right and that all of those licences, whether for felling or forestry, are done in a timely manner. We have to get that right to ensure farmers have faith in the system. The length of time many farmers have had to wait has been frustrating for them. The backlogs have caused significant problems. It is important that we build up faith in the system among farmers to encourage them to plant.

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