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

Most tree felling licences contain conditions pertaining to the replanting of the felling site with particular species. The species mix chosen as part of the licence depends on the nature of the site, environmental considerations and the purpose of the forest to the landowner.

However, under section 17 of the Forestry Act 2014 the Minister may at any time attach or vary conditions to any licence granted, including requiring the replanting of trees, the types of trees and other conditions associated with the replanting process.

Any non material change requests made after the licence issues which is subsequently approved requires an amendment to the licence. This applies whether harvesting has commenced or not. Where the licencee requires a material change in the species or stocking, the licensee must first request that the Department revokes the current licence, and a new application is then submitted as part of next batch of applications. Any material change requests made after the licence issues and where harvesting has commenced cannot be considered by the Department.

Therefore should an individual wish to change the species mix specified in the felling licence they should contact my Department with their proposal. (Felling.forestservice@agriculture.gov.ie - Felling Section, Department of Agriculture, Food & Marine, Johnstown Castle Estate, Co. Wexford.)