Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 19 May 2026
794. Deputy Carol Nolan asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the consultation process that will be followed for the development of the next Forestry Programme post-2027; the steps being taken to ensure that the views of the farming sector are given priority over corporate or investment interests in shaping future afforestation targets and incentives; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36933/26]
View answerThe Government’s preferred model of afforestation is for farmers to plant trees on their land. The Afforestation Scheme 2023-2027 pays farmers 33% more in annual premium payments than other landowners through a longer premia term of 20 years for farmers, compared to 15 years for non-farmers, across most Forest Types. Newly planted forestry also continues to qualify for the Basic Income Support Payment (BISS) Scheme, subject to underlying BISS rules.
The incentives currently on offer to farmers demonstrate our continued commitment to farmers and rural communities and this will remain a core consideration in the development of the next Forestry Programme 2028 -2032.
Forestry, however, remains demand led and a complex land use choice which is not solely based on incentives.
My Department recognises that developing a stronger understanding of landowner motivations, behavioural barriers and stakeholder engagement dynamics is critical to the success of the next Forestry Programme.
My department is working actively to ensure the inclusion of a diverse stakeholder perspectives across the forestry sector, and that forestry policy and programme design are informed by robust evidence and behavioural insights.
In 2025 this work included a research programme involving qualitative research with key stakeholder groups, behavioural analysis of landowner decision-making, and the facilitation of structured engagement workshops. Evidence and insights from this work is already supporting the delivery of the current forestry programme, schemes, communications and stakeholder engagement.
A very productive engagement workshop was recently hosted with the Forest Strategy Consultative Committee (FSCC) on the 13th of May. While the FSCC represents a broad range of Forestry stakeholders a comprehensive engagement programme will soon commence to ensure the inclusion of a broad range of stakeholders, landowners, and the public in the development of the next Forestry Programme.
