A call to action has been sounded by a group representing forest owners in the aftermath of Storm Éowyn, urging the new minister of state for forestry to prioritize support for private plantations ravaged by the recent severe weather. Kerry TD Michael Healy-Rae is widely anticipated to assume the role of minister of state for forestry, and the Irish Forest Owners (IFO) is urging him to direct assistance towards owners who have suffered “unprecedented destruction”.
The IFO has highlighted the widespread devastation witnessed, with entire forests flattened along the western coast and in the northern regions of the country. Chairperson Derek McCabe emphasized the urgent need for affected farmers and forest owners to be given the opportunity to salvage some value from their damaged crops. McCabe stressed the importance of removing any obstacles hindering recovery efforts, including calling for an amnesty on the requirement for a clearfell licence to facilitate the removal of windblown timber.
The emotional toll of witnessing years of investment decimated in a single night was underscored by McCabe, who emphasized the distress faced by forest owners. The IFO emphasized the significant financial losses incurred by many forest owners and urged for support to meet planting obligations. McCabe called on the Forest Service within the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine to demonstrate their commitment to assisting those most affected by providing prompt and equitable action.
Forest owners were advised by the IFO to exercise caution around windblown trees, ensuring restricted access and the placement of warning notices near damaged trees to prevent any potential hazards. Meanwhile, Independent TD Michael Healy-Rae is poised to assume the role of minister of state for responsibility for forestry, with his views on the sector and necessary actions already being articulated.
In a recent statement to Agriland, Healy-Rae emphasized the importance of fostering growth within Ireland’s forestry industry and supporting stakeholders in the process. He highlighted farmers as integral to environmental conservation, referring to them as the “solution” rather than the problem. He stressed the vital role that farmers play as custodians of the environment across various agricultural sectors, emphasizing the need to collaborate with and protect family farms while also promoting the expansion of the forestry and horticulture industries.
The forthcoming period will likely see a concerted effort to address the aftermath of Storm Éowyn and provide much-needed support to forest owners grappling with the aftermath of the severe weather event. As the sector looks towards recovery and rebuilding, the collaboration between stakeholders, government bodies, and industry representatives will be crucial in charting a path forward for Ireland’s forestry sector.