The Social, Economic and Environmental Forestry Association of Ireland (SEEFA) has expressed concern over the poor performance in afforestation activities last week. Data from the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine (DAFM) revealed that only 8 afforestation licences were issued for a total of 44ha, with 25ha actually planted during that period. As of November 15, a total of 4,258ha had been approved for new planting, with 525 licences issued and 537 valid applications received. So far this year, 1,475ha has been successfully planted.
SEEFA has noted a lack of momentum in afforestation efforts, particularly during a crucial time when planting rates should be at their peak. The association highlighted the inconsistency in recent months, stating that achieving the annual goal of 8,000ha/year will be extremely challenging. In 2023, DAFM issued afforestation licences for only 789ha, a significant decrease from the previous year’s 4,972ha. Similarly, the area planted last year dropped to 1,652ha from 2,273ha in 2022.
SEEFA also raised concerns about the ongoing issue of felling, describing it as a persistent problem throughout the year. The association emphasized that with just over 6 weeks remaining in 2023, the industry is still significantly behind in licensed hectares, making this one of the toughest years on record. DAFM has issued 872 private and 947 Coillte felling licences this year, relating to a total of 19,940ha. In comparison, 33,416ha was licensed for felling the previous year.
SEEFA reiterated its commitment to representing the private sector and collaborating with the government to advance the industry. However, the association stressed that weeks with poor performance, like the recent one, do not provide a solid foundation for progress. The latest data indicates that DAFM has issued 741 roads licences, covering a total of 294km. This year, 64km of forestry roads have been constructed. Additionally, 677 licences have been issued under the Reconstitution of Ash Dieback Scheme for 2,408ha.
Furthermore, 324 licences have been approved for the Native Area Tree Scheme (NTAS), corresponding to 352ha. The Deer Tree Shelter scheme (DTS) has seen 195 licences issued for 854ha, while 173 licences have been granted under the Woodland Improvement Scheme (WIS) for 955ha. Additionally, 10 licences have been issued for the Native Woodland Conservation Scheme, covering 79ha.
