Minister of State for Forestry, Michael Healy-Rae, has reaffirmed his commitment to supporting Donegal forest owners in the wake of significant damage following Storms Darragh and Eowyn.
He was speaking yesterday following the third meeting of the ‘Windblow Taskforce’ which confirmed that estimates show nearly 24,000 hectares of forest have suffered windblow damage. This more than twice the annual cut, prompting urgent discussions on increasing harvesting capacity and mobilising resources, including potential overseas support.
At least five National Forest Inventory (NFI) plots in Donegal are included in the first statistically valid national assessment of storm damage.
Following the meeting, Minister Healy-Rae acknowledged the scale of the challenge, stating: “We now have an approximation of the damage done, and the focus must be on ensuring the sector has the capacity to manage this crisis. Our discussions today centred on expanding the workforce needed to plan, harvest, transport, and market this timber. I commend all involved in the Taskforce for their proactive and constructive engagement, and we will continue working systematically to address the challenges faced by affected landowners.”
The Minister also reassured forest owners that those with the necessary licenses can proceed with clearance and replanting without fear of being disadvantaged in future assistance schemes.
The Minister also encouraged affected landowners to engage with industry bodies such as The Irish Forest Owners, Teagasc, and SEEFA, which are actively providing guidance through events and one-on-one clinics. “I strongly urge forest owners dealing with wind damage to attend these events and arm themselves with the best possible information.”
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