Green Party TD Steven Matthews has said that the €1.3 billion announced in State investment for the forestry sector will increase supports available for foresters and farmers in Wicklow and deliver on Ireland’s climate and biodiversity objectives. Speaking following the launch of the new Forestry Programme by his Green Party colleague in the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine, Minister Pippa Hackett, Deputy Matthews said:
“I am delighted to welcome this unprecedented level of funding for the Irish forestry sector. This is the largest-ever investment in tree planting announced by the State and underlines the commitment of this Government to tackling the climate and biodiversity crises. Premiums for planting trees will increase by up to 66% and a new premium period of 20 years will be available for farmers.
“I have had the pleasure of meeting with individuals and groups from the forestry sector in Wicklow in recent weeks. I fully understand their concerns and I will continue to engage with my Green Party colleague Minister Hackett and the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine on the development of policies in this area. The draft Forestry Strategy and the Forestry Programme are currently open to public consultation, and I would encourage those who are interested to consider making a submission before the end of November.
“Increasing the planting of native trees is a key priority of the Green Party. This large-scale investment announced by Minister Hackett will be transformative for the Irish forestry sector in helping us to reach our ambitious climate and biodiversity objectives while providing additional income for farmers and forest-owners. If anyone has any questions about the draft Forestry Strategy and Forestry Programme, please get in touch directly and I will offer any support I can”, Deputy Matthews concluded.
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