Michael Healy-Rae (Kerry South, Independent)
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192. To ask the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the status of a query regarding forestry (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [2892/16]

Simon Coveney (Cork South Central, Fine Gael)
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While the Deputy doesn’t refer specifically to “Storm Darwin”, I am assuming that the question is in respect of that weather event. In this regard I am aware of the difficulties that have been created for many forest owners as a result of the storms of late 2013 early 2014. The frequency and ferocity of these storm events, compounded by waterlogged soils on many forest sites, led to extensive damage on both private and State owned forest lands. While estimates indicate that less than 1% of the national forest area (approximately 8,000 hectares) has been blown down, the damage has been extensive at a local level, especially in the south and parts of the midlands where substantial quantities of timber have been blown down.

Financial support for a replanting grant for privately owned forests affected by the winter storms of 2013/2014 only is currently being considered by the Department. A final decision on this matter can be expected shortly.