Landowners react as forest premium is cut and costs increase

MANY landowners have scrapped afforestation plans after the Government cut the annual forestry premium by 8%, according to the Irish Timber Growers Association, which represents private woodland owners.

Forestry companies have warned that some landowners have sought legal advice, and may sue the government over the premium cut.

They warned also of a growing shortfall from the government’s target of 10,000 hectares planted annually. Last year, about 6,000 ha were planted, down from 6,900 ha in 2007, 8,000 ha in 2006 and 10,000 ha in 2005. Government policies on climate change, renewable energy, employment and timber production are threatened by the shortfall.