€7m of funding is provided under the scheme to restore Ireland’s native woodlands, which are rich complex ecosystems and an invaluable part of Ireland’s natural heritage.

“Over €7m has been set aside in the new Forestry Programme for this scheme, allowing for almost 2,000ha of native Irish forests to undergo an intensive programme of restoration work over the next five to six years,” said Hayes. “This will contribute significantly to the future health and vitality of these important woodlands, enriching both the surrounding landscape and ecology of these important habitats. Native woodlands also protect watercourses and link together other habitats in the wider countryside.”

Under the scheme, up to €5,000/ha will be available for appropriate restoration works, in addition to a seven-year premium for private woodland owners of €350/ha per year.

The Native Woodland Conservation Scheme has been developed by the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine in close partnership with Woodlands of Ireland, the National Parks & Wildlife Service (NPWS), the Heritage Council, Inland Fisheries Ireland (IFI) and other native woodland stakeholders.

It operates in tandem with existing measures under the general afforestation scheme to support the creation of new native woodland.