Willow plans at advanced stage

PLANS for the introduction of a scheme to support the planting of willow are at an advanced stage, but will require European Union approval.

Agriculture and Food Minister Mary Coughlan outlined the up-to-date position in a written reply to Fine Gael spokesperson Denis Naughten, TD.

She said she was also aware of renewed interest among some producers in growing miscanthus as a feedstock for bioenergy purposes.