Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 20 January 2026
807. Deputy Peter 'Chap' Cleere asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine to increase forestry grants to landowners who wish to plant some or all of their lands or additional lands; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4011/26]
View answerThe Forestry Programme 2023 – 2027 is extremely ambitious and contains a comprehensive package of measures, including an increase in forestry premiums of between 46% and 66% compared to its predecessor. Farmers can also receive 20 years of premium payments compared to 15 years for non-farmers. This Forestry Programme was put in place to incentivise farmers to the greatest extent possible to engage with tree-planting as an additional income stream and diversification option.
The Afforestation Scheme, contained within this Forestry Programme offers landowners a choice of 12 Forest Types, covering a broad range of planting options. A new Native Tree Area Scheme was also introduced to facilitate small-scale tree planting and does not require an afforestation licence. The Programme also recognises the importance of managing existing forests and provides a range of measures to support existing forest owners.
Last year, my Department undertook a Mid-Term Review (MTR) of the Forestry Programme in conjunction with members of the Forest Strategy Consultative Committee (FSCC), representing a broad range of Forestry stakeholders. The existing measures and schemes were reviewed with a view to improving their performance for the remainder of the Forestry Programme 2023-2027 term. The outcome of this Mid-Term Review is expected in early 2026.
Afforestation is a voluntary land use choice for landowners. However, I am confident that the existing attractive rates and supports under the Forestry Programme, in conjunction with the Mid-Term Review, will continue to support landowners to plant trees on their land and grow the forestry sector into 2026 and beyond, providing a sustainable land use option into the future.
