Charlie McConalogue (Donegal, Fianna Fail)
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Afforestation applications received by my Department are reviewed for completeness to ensure they are a valid application which can be progressed to licence decision stage. Between 1 and 31 January 2024, five valid applications for Afforestation, covering an area of 51 hectares, were submitted and these are currently being processed. A significant number of incomplete applications were received in the same period and are being followed up with the applicant.

In the same period we issued decisions on 42 Afforestation approvals for an area of 351 hectares.

It is worth noting that since the Forestry Programme 2023 – 2027 opened in September 2023, there are 1840 Ha of afforestation licenses available for planting. Furthermore, my department has received 159 valid Afforestation applications for 1,669ha.

The licensing process involves careful assessment of applications from a silvicultural, environmental and scheme compliance perspective.

The Afforestation Scheme offers landowners a choice of 12 Forest Types which cover a broad range of planting options. It provides generous incentives to farmers in particular to re-engage with forestry. This can be seen in our increased premia rates for Afforestation. These increases range from between 46% to 66%, along with a longer premia term of 20 years for farmers, compared to 15 years for non-farmers across most Forest Types.

I encourage all landowners, and farmers in particular, to consider joining the scheme as it provides a complementary income stream to active farmers, and delivers public goods for the benefit of all.