The Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine has welcomed the news that the EU Commission has agreed to an extension of the state aid approval for Ireland’s National Forestry Programme for this year.
Forestry Minister Pippa Hackett said: “This is good news which will provide assurance to those who wish to apply for grants under the current forestry programme.”
The Minister said the extension was necessary as there were delays in issuing new EU guidelines for state aid in the agriculture and forestry sector.
“This extended period gives us a much need opportunity to look afresh at forestry in Ireland. We know we need to build and improve on the existing model to provide ecosystem services, income, jobs and recreational opportunities as well as contributing to our challenging environmental goals,” the Minister added.
LSL News.