Seán Canney TD, Minister of State for International and Road Transport, Logistics, Rail and Ports and Leader in Cabinet of the Independent Ministers, has welcomed improvements to forestry supports following the publication of the Mid-Term Review of the Forestry Programme 2023–2027, including grant and fencing support increases of between 10% and 20% and changes aimed at making the schemes easier for farmers to access.

The review, announced by Minister of State for Forestry, Farm Safety and Horticulture Michael Healy-Rae TD, introduces a range of changes to existing forestry schemes designed to encourage greater participation and respond to feedback from farmers and landowners.

Welcoming the changes, Minister Canney said the measures should help make forestry a more practical option for farmers and landowners considering planting.

“Forestry can provide an additional income stream for farm families while also supporting biodiversity and climate action.

“The increases in grants and fencing supports announced through this review will make a real difference on the ground and should encourage more farmers and landowners to look at the opportunities forestry can provide.”

Among the changes are higher fencing grants and agroforestry premium rates under the Afforestation Scheme, increased fencing supports under the Native Tree Area Scheme, improved grant rates for the Climate Resilient Reforestation Pilot and the Forest Road Scheme, and an expansion of the Deer Tree Shelter, Hare and Deer Fencing Scheme.

The review also introduces two new agroforestry pilot schemes – Silvoarable and Forest Gardening – as well as a new Alluvial Woodland option for native forest establishment.

Minister Canney also welcomed the decision to simplify the definition of a farmer under the Afforestation Scheme, which will help reduce the administrative burden for farm families considering forestry.

The review also includes administrative improvements to a number of schemes, along with plans to provide additional training, guidance and engagement with stakeholders to support the rollout of the programme.

The revised measures will apply to forestry projects where works have not yet started and will remain in place for the remainder of the Forestry Programme 2023–2027.