The Social, Economic and Environmental Forestry Association of Ireland (SEEFA) has raised alarm over a concerning drop in the number of forestry licences granted last week. The Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine (DAFM) issued a total of 43 forestry licences in the seven days leading up to October 18. This figure represents a decrease from the 56 licences issued in the previous week and the 71 licences granted in the first week of the month.
“Last week, only about 40 forestry licences were issued, nearly half of the peak numbers seen last month and significantly below sustainable levels,” remarked SEEFA. The notable decline is worrisome as afforestation licensing levels have regressed to pre-August and September improvements, with road and felling licensing facing ongoing challenges.
The most recent forestry data released by the department reveals that only 9 afforestation licences were approved in the third week of October, a drop from the 17 licences issued in each of the first two weeks of the month. To date, a total of 3,990 hectares have been sanctioned for planting this year, with 479 licences granted and 514 valid applications received. The overall planted area for the year currently stands at 1,322 hectares, reflecting afforestation that has been paid at the first grant stage in 2021.
In the latest round of approvals, the department granted 11 private and 7 Coillte felling licences. Year-to-date figures show that 794 private and 872 Coillte felling licences have been issued. SEEFA emphasized the urgent need for an increase in felling licences, particularly in the private sector, which has experienced lackluster activity throughout the year. The industry is in dire need of promotion, with the sight of Irish logs being transported on lorries seen as a crucial visibility booster.
“While some fluctuations in weekly numbers are to be expected, such significant drops are unacceptable as we strive to catch up,” highlighted SEEFA. Last week, the department greenlit 16 licences, bringing the total for the year to 57 kilometers of forestry roads constructed across the country.
