Independent Senator Victor Boyhan has urged the establishment of a national forestry authority to bolster the confidence of farmers and foresters in the industry. Emphasizing the need to seize the opportunity presented by the formation of a new government, Senator Boyhan highlighted the disparate approaches of Coillte, the semi-state body, and the private sector, calling for a unified entity to streamline operations and ensure equitable support. Drawing parallels with countries like the United States, which boasts the Forest Service, Boyhan proposed that a National Forestry Authority could oversee regulations to promote fair competition.
According to the latest forestry dashboard for 2024, 595 afforestation licenses were granted, resulting in the planting of 4,844 hectares. In the same year, 956 private felling licenses and 1,007 Coillte felling licenses were issued, along with 840 road felling licenses. Boyhan’s advocacy for the prompt establishment of a forestry authority aligns with the imminent formation of the new government. Stressing the need for significant investment across all facets of the sector, he underscored the industry’s substantial job creation potential and economic value exceeding €2 billion.
Highlighting the crucial role of forestry in sustaining rural communities and economies, Boyhan emphasized the imperative of instilling stability and confidence within the sector. Expressing hope that rural representatives in the government would recognize the sector’s significance, he urged a firm commitment to incorporating the establishment of a national forestry authority in the forthcoming program for government.
