Written answers

Thursday, 4 May 2017

Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine

Afforestation Programme

Photo of Bríd SmithBríd Smith (Dublin South Central, People Before Profit Alliance)
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36. To ask the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if he will consider putting in place a community led afforestation project coordinated by local authorities as part of a programme to tackle climate change; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21113/17]

Photo of Michael CreedMichael Creed (Cork North West, Fine Gael)
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My Department currently operates two different measures under the Forestry Programme 2014-2020 where Local Authorities are themselves eligible for funding to plant trees. These are the afforestation scheme and the neighbourwood scheme. Within the first of these, Local Authorities can apply for establishment grants which cover 100% of the cost of planting bare land. However under State aid rules, Local Authorities are not eligible for annual premiums.

The neighbourwood scheme on the other hand was designed for Local Authorities working in partnership with local communities. Applications can be submitted by Local Authorities on behalf of community groups or by community groups themselves working in conjunction with Local Authorities. The scheme includes a planting component where funding is provided for establishing woodlands on “Greenfield sites”. The scheme aims to provide a “close to home” woodland amenity for the local community to enjoy. The scheme itself is a central pillar of the Department’s strategy to deliver recreation and social benefits of forestry to local communities. Forests have a positive impact on human well-being particularly in relation to our mental health.  Neighbourwoods are a great way to provide an amenity which is accessible for locals and also for schools where children can be close to and learn about their natural environment.

While the scheme is proving attractive to both Local Authorities and community groups my Department would like to see more applications being received. To this end the midterm review will focus on the following issues in relation to improving the neighbourwood scheme;

- How can the Neighbourwood scheme be improved upon to make it easier for interested parties to submit applications?

- Can the scheme be improved to increase the level of native woodland afforestation?

- How can local communities be mobilised to develop forests in their area?

Furthermore I will ensure that the Deputy’s proposal for a community led afforestation project coordinated by Local Authorities forms part of the discussions that will take place as part of this work.

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