For the Future
of our Forests
Social, Economic Environmental Forestry Association of Ireland
OUR MISSION
Who We Are
We are a private sector group, formed to highlight the forestry industry Ireland. Our aim is to draw focus on the development of a sustainable forestry sector in Ireland; through the promotion of forestry-related information, news and events.
Our Vision
We would like to see a sustainable forestry sector emerge in Ireland, that can achieve commercial, climate and biodiversity goals. We want to see a reduction in the volume of imported timber, and improvements to the current licensing system which are holding back the potential of the industry.
HECTARES OF FORESTRY (*2020 figure - Farmers Journal)
Social, Economic, Environmental Forestry Association of Ireland
5 Key Asks
- 1. Without delay, the forestry programme 2023-2027 must commence considering it is now two and a half years late. It must deliver for climate, nature and biodiversity objectives whilst working for communities, farm families and foresters.
- 2. The new programme cannot be a rehash of the old programme so must include a fair and functioning licensing system including timelines of 120 days on all licences.
- 3. The new programme must provide support for participants of previous programmes, particularly landowners with Ash Dieback. A new Ash Dieback scheme must be fit for purpose and include the agreed recommendations from all key stakeholders. This is also years overdue.
- 4. SEEFA repeat the industry-supported call for the immediate establishment of a Forestry Development Agency (FDA). The delayed forestry program once again highlights the department's inability to proactively engage with key EU officials. An independent agency tasked with promoting forestry, counteracting negativity and achieving Government targets should immediately begin communications with the EU to shape the next forestry programme in a positive, professional and proactive manner.
- 5. Full implementation of the Mackinnon report on streamlining the licensing system and full implementation of professor Cathal O’Donoghue’s report on what is required to reach the government's Climate Action afforestation targets and the consequences if the minister wishes to continue with a failed approach.
OUR AIMS
Inform
To inform the public on Forestry in the environmental, political and regulatory arenas.
Sustainability
To ensure the sustainability of the private forest sector, benefiting rural employment and local economies.
Realise Potential
To ensure the DAFM maximises the full potential of private forests to mitigate climate change and enhance biodiversity.
Stewardship
To prevent the complete demise of the private forestry sector currently under the stewardship of the Forestry Division of DAFM.
