Forestry Advocates SEEFA Eager for Continued Progress with Fresh Government

SEEFA Calls for Sustained Momentum on Forestry in New Government's Programme

The Social, Economic and Environmental Forestry Association of Ireland (SEEFA) has expressed optimism for the future of forestry under the new government, emphasizing the importance of maintaining momentum in this vital sector. The recently unveiled programme for government includes a firm commitment to supporting forestry and offering appealing financial incentives to encourage farmers to plant trees. A key focus of the government’s pledge is to ensure the effectiveness of the €1.3 billion Forestry Programme, particularly through the implementation of a streamlined licensing system. Additionally, the government aims to collaborate with all stakeholders to address any obstacles hindering tree planting and felling activities within the existing Forestry Programme.

The Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine (DAFM) recently disclosed that 12 afforestation licences were issued in the week leading up to January 17. According to the latest forestry data released by the department, there have been 9 valid afforestation applications received so far this year, resulting in 31 licences being granted for a total of 239 hectares of land. Notably, 51 hectares have already been planted this year. The figures also indicate that the afforestation planted in 2025 reflects the area that has received initial grant payments this year, including under the Native Area Tree Scheme (NTAS). Furthermore, the department has issued 43 licences for private felling and 4 licences for Coillte felling, covering a combined area of 610 hectares. Additionally, 16 licences have been issued for forestry roads, totaling 6 kilometers in length. Under the Reconstitution of Ash Dieback Scheme, 19 licences have been granted for 68 hectares. Moreover, DAFM has approved 8 licences under the Woodland Improvement Scheme (WIS) for 46 hectares. The Native Area Tree Scheme (NTAS) has seen 5 licences issued for 6 hectares, while the Deer Tree Shelter scheme (DTS) has received 1 licence for 8 hectares. As of January 17, no licences have been issued this year for the Native Woodland Conservation Scheme.

In response to the latest forestry data, SEEFA highlighted a decline in afforestation licences from 18 to 12 in the past week, covering only 85 hectares, falling short of the annual target of 8,000 hectares. While there was an improvement in road licences, increasing from zero to 16, private felling experienced a slight decrease. This fluctuation on a weekly basis was identified as a major factor contributing to last year’s shortfall in forestry activities, underscoring the critical need for more consistent and predictable progress. SEEFA stressed the importance of establishing stable momentum once the new government assumes office, expressing eagerness to collaborate with the incoming minister to facilitate greater participation in forestry among landowners, expedite the licensing process, and capitalize on the growing demand for tree planting.

Matt Lyons

Matt Lyons

Matt Lyons is the founder of Forestry & Carbon. Matt has over 25 years as a forestry consultant and is invoilved in numerous carbon credit offset projects.

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