The Irish Farmers Association’s (IFA) forestry chairperson, Padraig Stapleton, is urging the government to provide partial funding for a national insurance policy aimed at assisting private forestry growers. In the wake of Storm Éowyn, which wreaked havoc on crops across the country, Stapleton emphasized the lack of insurance coverage for trees older than 20 years. This leaves affected growers without any compensation for their losses. Stapleton’s primary concern is safeguarding the forestry industry’s future, with immediate support for forestry farmers impacted by the recent storm topping his agenda.
Stapleton emphasized the necessity of taking swift action, calling for an amnesty on licences and the implementation of a straightforward code of practice and standard mitigation rules without delay. He highlighted the urgency of removing fallen timber promptly to prevent potential pest infestations that could arise if the trees are left to decay on the ground. Stapleton expressed particular concern about the risk of pests proliferating in areas like Limerick and Clare, stressing the importance of clearing the fallen trees expeditiously.
Looking ahead, the IFA’s Forestry Committee chairperson stressed the importance of government support for growers in the long term. Stapleton proposed the establishment of a national insurance scheme for private growers, with a portion of the funding coming from the government. He also called for a reconstitution grant to assist with the costly replanting obligations that growers face. Stapleton underscored the financial burden associated with replanting and emphasized the need for a structured scheme to address this issue effectively.
Expressing doubts about Ireland’s capacity to handle the storm damage independently, Stapleton urged the government to seek international assistance. He pointed out that the country lacks the necessary contractor resources to manage the extensive cleanup required in the aftermath of Storm Éowyn. Stapleton emphasized the importance of recognizing the limitations of the current resources available and the need to mobilize external support to address the challenges posed by the storm’s aftermath.
