Harrier land ineligible for forestry grants

Minister McConalogue said designating lands as Special Protection Areas (SPAs) for breeding hen harriers is a function exercised by the National Parks and Wildlife Service.

Farmers whose land is designated for hen harrier breeding will be unable to avail of afforestation grants.

Agriculture Minister Charlie McConalogue told the Dail the question of compensation does not arise and is not one he is considering.