Carol Nolan (Laois-Offaly, Independent) | Oireachtas source

A few months ago, I attended a meeting in Thurles which was organised by Limerick and Tipperary Woodland Owners. The meeting was organised to address and highlight the issue of ash dieback, which affects many constituencies, including my own, Laois-Offaly. The Irish Farmers' Journal has reported that 6,000 families are affected and 70,000 acres in total are affected. Will compensation be provided to those affected? I know those affected, including many businesses which are involved in forestry as well as landowners and farmers, spoke. There is much upset and frustration. If we are to restore the confidence that has been lost in the forestry sector and encourage people to get involved in afforestation, it is essential that compensation packages be provided in the forthcoming budget. I am asking for certainty today.

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