April 2025 | Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine
Ireland has recorded a significant increase in new forestry planting in the first quarter of 2025, according to Minister of State Michael Healy-Rae, who praised the 130% year-on-year rise and encouraged landowners to take advantage of the country’s generous afforestation support schemes.
From January to March, 627 hectares of new forest were planted—more than double the area planted during the same period last year. Additionally, over 6,000 hectares of land have already been licensed and approved for afforestation but remain unplanted.
“I really welcome the figures on new planting since January,” said Minister Healy-Rae in a statement from the Department. “The Forestry Programme is the best-funded ever, and I encourage landowners with approvals to proceed with planting so they can benefit from the attractive grants and tax-free premiums available for up to 20 years.”
To date in 2025, the government has disbursed €43 million in grants and premiums to forest owners. Ireland currently has over 24,000 forest owners, including 19,500 farmers, who are benefitting from state-backed supports covering planting, fencing, and annual income.
🌳 Forestry as a Profitable, Sustainable Land Use
The Forestry Programme 2023–2027 includes 12 forest types, as well as the Native Tree Area Scheme aimed at small-scale, biodiversity-enhancing planting. With upfront costs covered and income tax-free premiums, forestry is being positioned as a strategic land-use choice amid Ireland’s climate and economic goals.
Despite the positive Q1 figures, Minister Healy-Rae acknowledged recent challenges, including the aftermath of Storm Éowyn, which resulted in 24,000 hectares of windblown trees. In response, a Forest Windblow Taskforce has been established to support affected landowners and stabilize the sector.
“The scheme is demand-led, and while uptake hasn’t always met targets, we are committed to promoting forestry as a valuable and sustainable option,” said Healy-Rae. “We’re working closely with stakeholders to rebuild confidence and ensure long-term resilience.”
📢 Looking Ahead: National Awareness Campaign
The Department will launch a nationwide communications strategy to raise awareness of forestry options among farmers and landowners. This effort will utilize a wide range of media and outreach platforms to showcase the benefits of afforestation.
Healy-Rae concluded,
“We are determined to provide the best outcomes for forest owners, the industry, and the environment. Forestry is a win for everyone, and we’re making it easier and more rewarding than ever to get involved.”
Source: Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine
Official statement published April 2025
https://www.gov.ie/en/press-release
Michael Healy-Rae Picture on Wikimedia from Oireachtas (Open Data) PSI Licence
