Forestry
So far this year, 84 alleged illegal forestry (AIF) incidents have taken place, leading to 65 investigations and eight replanting orders.
There has been a 95% reduction in the planting of Sitka spruce between 1993 and 2025, according to Minister Martin Heydon.
Agri-Business
Minister Martin Heydon said government departments “have no role" in regulating salary scales for those working in private vet practices.
Agri Politics
Minister for Agriculture Martin Heydon has said that conditions for commonage eligibility for farm scheme payments "have not changed".
Environment
Engagement between landowners and greenways project teams is critical to avoid "severance of farm holdings" according to minister.
Minister Martin Heydon has confirmed that no "request for grant aid" has been received in relation to anaerobic digestors.
Latest figures show 9,120 forest owners received an "annual income tax-free premium payment" under the Afforestation Scheme last year.
There is a "clear opportunity" for farmers to be "paid a premium" for taking nature-based anti-flooding measures, a Social Democrats TD said.
Rural Life
DAFM provided funding of almost €6.5 million to 94 animal welfare charities, €4 million was awarded to horse-related charities.
There is a government commitment to “expanding our active travel and greenway infrastructure network”, according to Minister Darragh O'Brien.
