The Social, Economic Environmental Forestry Association of Ireland (SEEFA) has said that the government’s review of the current forestry programme must address the “core issues” in the sector.
A commitment to review the programme was made by Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine Charlie McConalogue, where certain proposed changes may be required to be notified to the European Commission under State Aid Rules.
SEEFA welcomed the minister’s confirmation, however urged the government to “expedite” the review in order to address “critical issues hindering the sector’s growth”.
The association listed points that it believes the mid-term review must address:
- Promotion and education: Leveraging the expertise of the private sector to enhance public awareness and understanding of forestry’s benefits;
- Licensing capability: Confirm the department’s ability to deliver licenses quickly and easily while making them more affordable for the average forester;
- Regulatory consultation: Involve private sector stakeholders in discussing regulations and future programme changes to ensure practical and effective policies;
- Research on land use and eligibility: Conducting comprehensive studies to resolve land use issues and clarify eligibility criteria for forestry initiatives.
Chair of SEEFA Padraig Egan said: “Only with collaboration between the private and public sectors can we improve the industry and reach Ireland’s economic and environmental goals.”
The current forestry programme has achieved just over 20% of the annual target of 8,000 hectares between 2023 and today.
Forestry programme
In 2023 alone, only 1,652ha were planted, with 789 afforestation licences issued, 87 km of road licences granted, and 33,416ha approved for felling.
SEEFA stated that this marks “one of the worst years” in the industry’s history. While afforestation and road licences have seen some improvement in 2024, planting and felling activities continue to struggle.
The latest forestry data, published by the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine (DAFM) shows that a total of 3,990ha has been approved for planting so far this year, with 479 licences issued and a total of 514 valid applications received.
“The longer we delay, the longer it takes for the outlook to improve. Immediate action is crucial for the sustainability and growth of Ireland’s forestry sector,” Egan said.