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

To be clear, there is no accusation in regard to the changes. The changes I am referring to are the additions to what was there, which everyone wanted to see. However, people wanted them reflected in the independent review report with which they engaged. The fact is that once the independent review report was completed, and an additional climate action performance payment and other changes to the scheme were announced, there was no engagement with the sector.

People are really annoyed. There was a protest two weeks ago outside Leinster House that was attended by about 200 people, none of whom is happy with the scheme. Where is the Minister of State picking up that people are very happy with the scheme? That is certainly not what I am hearing.

Regarding site clearance, people planted trees, did what was asked of them and what they were encouraged by the Department to do and have had their trees destroyed through no fault of their own. Why should they be out of pocket and have to spend thousands to clear trees? Most landowners are not in a position to pay for that. This is a major issue and it will mean that these trees will not be cleared.

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