There are moves by Sinn Féin to limit the ease with which tracts of land can be planted with trees.

A new bill on forestry has been published by Sinn Féin agriculture spokesperson Martin Kenny, which if passed into legislation, could mean that planning permission is required for any forestry over 5ha.

Currently, there is no planning permission required to plant forestry, but a licence is required. The granting of a licence can be appealed to the forestry appeals committee.

Speaking to the Irish Farmers Journal, Kenny said that as it stands, anyone can get a licence and plant away.

“We’re not trying to prevent forestry, this bill is to regulate it.

“Trees can grow up to 40ft tall. If you wanted to build a structure that high you would need planning,” he said.