A gathering of forest proprietors has orchestrated a public assembly to delve into various issues stemming from the aftermath of Storm Éowyn. This includes a comprehensive assessment of the damage incurred and an evaluation of the government’s response. Irish Forest Owners (IFO) have orchestrated the meeting, tailored for those grappling with storm-ravaged forests, scheduled for February 18 at 7:00 p.m., to be held at the Landmark Hotel in Carrick-on-Shannon, Co. Leitrim – one of the regions severely impacted by forest devastation. The IFO has articulated that the meeting will serve as a forum for forest owners grappling with storm-related damage to convene, exchange experiences, and strategize on the recovery and restoration of their impacted forests. The primary objective of the meeting is to offer support to forest owners as they navigate through the aftermath of one of the most severe weather events in recent memory, ensuring the enduring health and viability of their forests, as highlighted by the group.
The key topics slated for discussion at the gathering encompass an evaluation of the government’s response thus far; emergency response and recovery strategies tailored for forest owners; the requisites of affected proprietors; the financial aid and resources imperative for recovery; short-term planning to alleviate losses; and preventing any form of exploitative practices within the supply chain that may disadvantage the owners. The meeting will also delve into the extent of damage nationwide and the specific needs of forest owners. Moreover, there will be networking opportunities aimed at fostering collaboration and knowledge exchange among the attendees, as outlined by the IFO. In his remarks regarding the meeting, IFO chairperson Derek McCabe emphasized the pivotal role forest owners play in both the environment and the economy, underscoring the importance of standing in solidarity to aid those impacted by recent storms. McCabe remarked, “This meeting serves as a crucial platform for forest owners to garner invaluable insights and resources to help mitigate their losses and fortify their resilience for the future.”
The IFO is urging the government to take “immediate action” on various fronts. These include extending support to farmer forestry owners; establishing a base price for timber and transitioning from price-per-tonne to price-per-m3; committing to providing a replanting grant for all windblown sites; ensuring that felling licenses do not impede the clearance of windblown areas; and allocating funding to facilitate the removal of fallen or damaged trees from forests. Additionally, the IFO is advocating for specific legislative measures from the government, such as imposing a moratorium on granting felling licenses or processing standing timber until windblown timber is addressed; expediting license processes based on health and safety risks; and halting the importation of firewood and biomass until all fallen timber is utilized.
