Government moves forestry portfolio
It said the decision has been taken due to the need for co-ordinated policy making on forestry and other agricultural land uses at national and EU levels.
Mr Walsh said he welcomed the decision and looked forward to giving leadership in a vibrant planting programme to ensure the country’s sophisticated processing industry will be maintained with an adequate supply.
He said he will also aim to ensure that all available land suitable for forestry will be utilised to the greatest extent possible.
“At the present time we have only 8% of the country planted compared to an average of 31% in the rest of Europe. There is great opportunity and great potential,” he said.
The minister said the planting target under various government and partnership programmes is 20,000ha per annum. There is a minimum adequate requirement to have 10,000ha to 12,000ha to supply processing plants.
IFA president John Dillon said he welcomed the transfer with over 90% of planting being carried out by farmers over the last number of years.
He called on Mr Walsh to ensure the commitments given to the planting programme of 20,000ha are honoured.
