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 the opening of applications for the 2026 Reconstitution Scheme for Windblown Forests, which will provide €55 million in supports to forest owners impacted by storms Darragh and Éowyn.

The scheme is now open for applications through the Department’s online iNET system.

Welcoming the development, Minister Canney said: “The damage caused by last year’s storms was significant for many forest owners, and I know the pressure that has put on people trying to restore their land and livelihoods. This scheme is an important step in helping them get back on track.

“There is €55 million being made available here, and it will make a real difference in supporting the replanting of forests and ensuring they can continue to play their role in our rural economy and environment.”

The scheme supports the restoration of forests damaged by storms, with grants available for a range of replanting options including native woodland, broadleaf and mixed forests.

Applications must be submitted by a registered forester on behalf of the forest owner through the iNET system, with detailed guidance, mapping supports and training materials available to assist in the process.

Minister Canney encouraged those affected to engage early: “I would strongly encourage any forest owner affected to make contact with their forester now and begin the application process. The supports are there, and it’s important that people can access them as quickly as possible.

“This is about helping people recover, but it’s also about ensuring the long-term sustainability of forestry right across the country.”

Further information, including full details of the scheme, eligibility criteria and application supports, is available on https://www.gov.ie/en/department-of-agriculture-food-and-the-marine/services/reconstitution-scheme-for-windblow-2026/