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

I thank the Minister of State for her reply. Of course here was engagement, which I acknowledge, in terms of the review report on the existing scheme. The report told us the State should cover the full cost of clearance and was also very clear in saying that the Department should explore the potential for a once-off ex gratia payment. There was engagement at that level when the review was carried out. However, I am referring to engagement with the changes made to the scheme. Many people affected by this are not happy with those changes. Representatives from Limerick and Tipperary woodland owners came before an Oireachtas committee yesterday. They are very unhappy, annoyed, frustrated and upset by the changes which have been announced that do not cover the cost of site clearance in every circumstance. One person was quoted €10,000 for clearance. Why should they have to pay €8,000 to clear a plant that has been destroyed through no fault of their own?

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