Heather Humphreys (Cavan-Monaghan, Fine Gael)
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Afforestation licences and the terms, conditions and timing of the Locally-Led Agri Environment Scheme are a matter for my colleague, the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine. An Inter-Departmental Steering Group was convened in July 2014 to assist in the development of a Hen Harrier Threat Response Plan. The Group is examining all of the issues at hand, including forestry and financial supports for farmers, with a view to determining the appropriate course of further action. A Consultative Committee with representatives from all the relevant sectors was also set up, including representatives of agriculture and forestry.

The Steering Group and Consultative Committee met earlier this month to consider the results of the 2015 Hen Harrier Survey, carried out on contract on behalf of my Department, and will meet again in December to continue work towards the first draft of the Plan.