The establishment of the Group Forest Certification Ireland Board as a positive development for the sector, says the Irish Farmers’ Association (IFA). IFA farm forestry chair Padraig Stapleton said: “The establishment of the Group Forest Certification Ireland board is a positive initiative by the minister. To date, only 8% are certified, substantially lower than Coillte plantations, which have dual certification from both the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) and the Programme of Forest Certification (PEFC). All eligible forest owners can apply for a €1,200 grant aid per management plan under the existing Forestry Programme 2023-2027. Forest management plans are a requirement for forest certification.

Source: Irish Examiner December 31, 2025 14:47 UTC