Tony McLoughlin (Sligo-Leitrim, Fine Gael)
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451. To ask the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the status of an afforestation licence application (details supplied); when a decision will issue; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [49306/17]

Michael Creed (Cork North West, Fine Gael)
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The application referred to by the Deputy for the Afforestation Grant and Premium Scheme was received in my Department on 23rd March, 2017. My Department strives to ensure the suitability of sites approved for afforestation and the adherence to guidelines for the protection of ecological and archaeological assets. This particular site contains both such assets and therefore must be assessed for any potential impact from the proposed activity.

The Department’s archaeologist and ecologist have both visited the site and provided reports. Based on their comments, further information has been requested with regard to the ecological features of the site. The site is located within an area of high biodiversity value. Records show that species listed in the Flora Protection Order have been found and given the occurrence of legally protected plant species and the mosaic of habitats found, further information is required for the Department to fully evaluate this large complex site and to assess the potential ecological impacts of the proposed development.

The applicant and their registered forester have received details of the information that is required in order to progress this application. When received and evaluated, the Department will make its recommendations, which will inform the decision issued to the applicant.