Increasing afforestation will likely play a crucial role in helping Ireland meet its climate change commitments, according to Fianna Fail.

Spokesperson on Communications, Climate Action and Environment, Timmy Dooley, has called on farmers and landowners to consider forestry as a means of diversifying their activities and income streams.

Ha also confirmed a number of informational Forestry Clinics will be taking place throughout Ireland, starting this month (January).

-- Advertisement --

Mr Dooley said: "Since 1980, nearly 20,000 private forest owners have received grant aid to establish forests.

"While the current government has been unfortunately slow in promoting forestry as an economic activity, Fianna Fáil recognises the important role forestry has to play in Ireland’s economic and environmental future.

"Engaging in forestry can be both economically and environmentally beneficial, and I would urge farmers with spare land to consider it.

"There is a need for government to tackle the under planting of forestry in Ireland by introducing additional schemes to encourage land owners to consider forestry as a viable enterprise."

For further information about the Forestry Clinic contact Tom Houlihan on 087-6184353 or email [email protected].

(CD/MH)