Paul McGrath (Westmeath, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 125: To ask the Minister for Agriculture and Food her plans to develop the forestry sector and increase its uptake; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32721/06]

Mary Coughlan (Donegal South West, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context

In terms of incentives, the current forestry grant and premium package is without doubt the most attractive that has ever been available. Farmers and land-owners can avail of an establishment grant of 100% of costs, a tax free premium of up to €500 per hectare per annum for 20 years, at present, and under the Single Payment Scheme, farmers can plant up to 50% of their eligible claimed area, without losing any entitlements.

Under the new Rural Development Plan 2007–2013, I intend to bring forward a new Forestry Programme. The detail of the new Rural Development Plan has yet to be finalised, but it will be made available for public consultation shortly.

Earlier this year my Department embarked on a joint initiative with the Irish Forestry Industry Chain (IFIC) under the heading 'Forests for a Bright Future' to highlight the multifunctional benefits of forestry and to stimulate up-take in the afforestation programme. This promotional campaign is expected to run for at least eighteen months, and is promoting the advantages of forestry, particularly to farmers, with a view to increasing the rate of new planting.