Deputy Erin McGreehan has welcomed the payment of €110,145 in annual forestry premium payments to forest owners in County Louth, which were issued this week under the 2026 forestry premium scheme.
The annual payments, which are income tax free, have been made to forest owners who applied online and provide an important source of ongoing support for the forestry sector.
Deputy McGreehan said the annual premium payments are a vital support for forest owners and, together with establishment grants, help sustain forestry, support rural employment and encourage continued planting and long-term investment.
At a national level, almost €23.5 million was paid out in the most recent bulk payment run, covering just over 6,500 forestry premium applications.
Deputy McGreehan added that with the highest payment rates ever available and a wide range of planting options, the scheme provides valuable support for forestry owners. She encouraged anyone considering forestry to speak with a registered forester or a Teagasc forestry adviser.
The Afforestation Grant and Premium Scheme covers the cost of establishing forest plantations and includes an annual forestry premium of up to €1,142 per hectare. Premium payments are available for up to 20 years for farmers and up to 15 years for other applicants.
Forest owners who have not yet submitted their applications can still apply online through the Department of Agriculture’s Online Services portal at www.agfood.ie.
Applications are open throughout the year, with 2026 forestry premium payments processed on an ongoing basis and issued weekly.
Further information on forestry supports is available on the Department of Agriculture’s website.
