Forestry Sector

Tuesday, 26 May 2026

Questions (917)

Albert Dolan

Question:

917. Deputy Albert Dolan asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if consideration is being given to reviewing current afforestation licensing rules in relation to planting distances from overhead electricity infrastructure, in light of concerns regarding the impact of fallen forestry on power lines during storm Éowyn and the importance of maintaining forestry corridors to protect the integrity and resilience of the electricity network; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [39706/26]

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Written answers

Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine

In July 2025 the Government approved the priority drafting of the Electricity (Supply) (Amendment) Bill 2025 which will enhance the resilience of the electricity grid.

The purpose of this Bill is to enable proactive measures, such as the establishment and maintenance of designated forestry corridors within existing forestry.

The Heads of Bill allows for the creation of Corridors up to a width of 55 metres for distribution lines and up to 74 metres for the transmission lines.

The specific arrangements will be provided for in subsequent regulations. I have discussed this matter with Minister O’Brien and our Departments are engaging to find solutions that improve the resilience of the electricity network without unduly hindering the development of sustainable forestry.