Independent TD Michael Healy-Rae has emphasized the crucial need for the forthcoming government to prioritize the growth of Ireland’s forestry sector and provide unwavering support to all stakeholders involved. He is set to assume the role of Minister of State at the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine, with a specific focus on forestry, horticulture, and farm safety. Healy-Rae underlined the pivotal role of farmers in environmental conservation, asserting that they are the true custodians of the land and the environment. “Farmers are the real custodians of the environment. They are the real green party,” the deputy emphasized. He highlighted the dedication of farmers in enhancing their land, whether through pig husbandry, sheep farming, cattle rearing, or dairy production, stressing that farmers are not the problem but the solution to environmental challenges. “We must work with them and we must protect the family farms. We must try and grow our forestry industry, we have to try and grow our horticulture industry,” Healy-Rae affirmed.
Addressing the long-standing delays in the distribution of forestry licenses within the Department of Agriculture, the latest data reveals that 588 afforestation licenses were issued for 2023, with statistics up to December 20. Deputy Healy-Rae acknowledged the existing issues within the forestry sector and expressed confidence that the government will devise practical solutions in collaboration with stakeholders. He emphasized Ireland’s potential to produce beef and milk in a more environmentally sustainable manner compared to other nations, a sentiment he believes also applies to forestry management. “We can grow trees better than many, many other countries, but we haven’t been doing so in the way that I would like to see us do it,” Healy-Rae remarked.
As the Dáil adjourned for the day without electing a Taoiseach, proceedings are scheduled to resume tomorrow, Thursday, January 23, with opposition leaders planning to convene with their party whips this evening to strategize. The finalization of Cabinet positions is anticipated following the election of the Taoiseach, with Fianna Fáil set to secure 8 ministerial portfolios and Fine Gael to hold 7, out of the 15 positions available.