Minister Niall Collins announces €108.2m for forestry, farm safety and horticulture

Minister of State Niall Collins TD has announced a total budget of €108.2 million for forestry, farm safety and horticulture in 2027.

Collins said the forestry allocation comprises €96.26 million in capital and current expenditure, aimed at sustainable development, promotion of forestry as a land‑use option for farmers and support for forest owners affected by the 2025 storms through the Reconstitution scheme.

He highlighted the sector’s contribution to timber supply, the economy and rural employment, as well as its role in biodiversity, nature and climate goals.

The farm safety package provides €2.3 million to continue existing initiatives and develop new measures addressing safety, mental health, isolation and loneliness among farmers.

For horticulture, Collins announced €9 million for capital investment schemes and €1.7 million for development and promotion, with plans to open the Commercial Horticulture Development Scheme and Innovation and Diversification Schemes shortly.

Source: Limerick Post. Photo: Hannah Thomson / Pexels.