Forest Road Grant Scheme Reopened

Forest Road Grant Scheme Reopened- O’Keeffe

Senator Susan O’Keeffe has welcomed the reopening of the Forest Roads (Grant) Scheme. The scheme which was temporarily suspended in December in order to evaluate and assess the Department of Agriculture, Food and Marine’s financial position, provides funding for the construction and harvesting of roads to facilitate timber harvesting in rural areas.

“I am fully aware of how important the scheme is for rural communities and am delighted that the Department has been able to find the funds to support additional investment. The Forestry industry provides jobs for more than 16,000 people nationwide and is of significant importance to the people in our community.” 

“Some of the changes in the scheme reflect the Government’s strong and on-going commitment to working people, job creation and reform.  Farmers, private forest owners and companies will be prioritised and State owned companies and public authorities will not be eligible allowing for the continual growth of indigenous businesses that harvest and process forest products.”