Michael Creed (Cork North West, Fine Gael)
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Question 406: To ask the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food his proposals to ban afforestation on enclosed and unimproved land; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7066/09]

Brendan Smith (Cavan-Monaghan, Fianna Fail)
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It is assumed that the Deputy is referring to unenclosed and unimproved land, normally referred to as unenclosed lands. This describes land that was never improved or enclosed by man-made boundaries for agricultural use other than extensive grazing. In the context of afforestation in Ireland, these lands tend, in general, to be the most unproductive being peat lands or lands located on the exposed slopes of upland areas.

As the lands covered by the classification unenclosed lands is not a homogenous entity and includes an array of soil types and locations it is necessary to closely examine all proposals for afforestation on these lands on their merits. There is no formal ban proposed on afforestation on these lands. However, any application for planting in these areas must be carefully examined to determine any potential environmental impact of that planting. It must also have regard to the range of national and European environmental Directives, legislation and regulations that are designed to protect the unique characteristics of, and habitats within, these areas. Where applications for afforestation come within areas designated for protection under such Directives or legislation, my Department must consult with other statutory bodies before deciding on the applications.