Ireland’s Forestry and Fishery Sectors to Receive Additional Funding

Following publication of a revised National Development Plan (NDP), Ireland said it will allocate an additional €160 million ($187.19 million) over 2026–30, directing funds to the Targeted Agriculture Modernisation Schemes (TAMS) for forestry, fisheries, harbor centers, and seafood development, the Irish Examiner reported (7-30-25).

The revised NDP sets out the department’s five-year allocation plan and aims to support economic, social, and environmental development in rural and coastal communities.

Minister for Agriculture Martin Heydon said, “The NDP allocation that I secured for my department will contribute to improved competitiveness, including through research and innovation, capital investment at the industry level to support international market diversification, and investment to meet climate and environmental obligations.”

Funds will also help Forestry Minister Michael Healy-Rae advance the Forestry Windblow Reconstruction Scheme, addressing damage from Storms Darragh and Éowyn. The damage extends to 25,750 hectares (63,629 acres) of forestry, of which 11,600 hectares (28,664 acres) are in private ownership.

Healy-Rae said, “These additional funds will support the department in addressing forestry window damage due to Storms Darragh and Éowyn. The Forest Windblow Taskforce that I established earlier this year has been calling for funds on this, and I am delighted that this has been reflected by the Government in the NDP allocation to my department.”