Colm Burke (Cork North Central, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

265. To ask the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if he will clarify the decision not to include ash plantations that are 25 years old and are diseased in the reconstitution and underplanting scheme when there is clear evidence these diseased plantations have little or no commercial value; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28832/21]

Charlie McConalogue (Donegal, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

The Reconstitution and Under-planting Scheme was developed by the Department in order to provide the forest owner with a broader range of silvicultural and management options in support of the ash dieback impacted plantation. The scheme opened for applications in June 2020 and, to date, there have been over 304 applications with 61 approved.

The decision not to allow older and more mature plantations (17m top height or >18cm dbh or >25 years old)access to the Reconstitution and Underplanting Scheme is based on the position that these plantations have grown to these dimensions and will accordingly be of merchantable value.

Michael Creed (Cork North West, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

266. To ask the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if a forestry licence application by a person (details supplied) will be expedited in view of the fact that an ecologist report has been submitted by the applicant. [28869/21]

Charlie McConalogue (Donegal, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

A Natura Impact Statement (NIS) for this application was received by officials on 11th May and will shortly be assigned to an ecologist.

We expect that an ecologist will complete their assessment within two to three months. The licence will then be returned to the Forestry District Inspector for their final review and recommendations. A decision should issue shortly afterwards.