Page 2 - Forestry Programme News Today

The cabinet has given approval to an 'Ash Dieback Action Plan', which will provide increased grant rates for clearing and replanting.

An action plan to provide additional supports for farmers with forestry impacted by ash dieback disease has been approved by the government today.

The Ash Dieback Action Plan is a "positive step" to restoring the "eroded confidence" of farmers in forestry.

For many – and not just those in the farming community – forestry has become a very sensible long-term investment. CONOR POWER looks at some of the reasons why‘For the last 30 years, forestry has been an attractive investment in Ireland,’ says John Hodnett of Hodnett-Ford

There are further calls for a scheme to allow landowners remove dangerous trees, particularly those affected by ash dieback.

Sinn Féin TD Claire Kerrane said government inaction on afforestation "risks sleepwalking the forestry sector into disaster".

A controversial forestry fund set up by Coillte is “performing strongly”, but would not provide the Farming Independent with details of how much land it has bought since its launch.

Green light for 80ha under Native Tree Area Scheme - 17 February 2024

The level of planting depends on the number of applications from eligible farmers and landowners. The Department of Agriculture has said in response to EPA's suggestion that between 25,000 and 35,000ha per year may need to be planted for Ireland to reach its net-zero targets.

An area of 65ha has been planted in the first six weeks of 2024, according to the latest afforestation figures from the DAFM.