Recreational use is a primary aim of Forestry Bill - Gildernew
Friday, 18 September 2009Minister Michelle Gildernew MP MLA has secured approval from the Assembly of the Second Stage of the Forestry BillFollowing general debate and a vote by MLAs on the general principles of the Bill, it was subsequently agreed. The Bill was introduced in the Assembly on 29 June 2009.
In moving the Bill, the Minister set out its aims which are to replace outdated forestry law with new legislation which will support a wider role for forestry in modern society. Speaking about the proposed legislation, the Minister said: “Our current legislation dates back to 1953 and reflects the priorities of an era when the focus was mainly on commercial timber production. It has been evident for some time that forestry is of significant importance for reasons other than timber production.”
Placing emphasis on the recreational potential that forests have to offer, the Minister said: “Our forests offer great potential for increasing recreation, tourism, rural development, sport, health and educational opportunities. I want to realise that potential, as articulated in my launch on 1 July, of the Forest Service’s Recreation and Social Use Strategy. We must actively promote and market our forests and engage with local councils, communities and others to encourage their greater use for quiet individual enjoyment or for organised events.
"There is wide recognition that increasing forest cover can enhance the many benefits that forests already provide, be they environmental, economic or social. The Forestry Strategy, published in 2006 provides for a balanced approach between producing commercial timber, protecting the forest environment and providing increased opportunities for forest-based recreation."
Outlining the provisions of the Bill, the Minister said: “The new Forestry Bill will retain powers to deal with day to day forestry matters. It will reintroduce felling licences and contain a new power to obtain better value from the public forest estate, and to engage with public or private partnerships to maximise this opportunity. The Bill will grant a right of pedestrian access, so that everyone can enjoy what our forests have to offer."
In conclusion the Minister said: "I wish to thank my Assembly colleagues for their contribution to the debate and I will consider the points they have raised further with my officials and the Agriculture and Rural Development Committee."
It is expected that the Bill will become law in 2010.
The draft Bill is available online at: http://www.niassembly.gov.uk/legislation/primary/assleg08.htm
www.forestserviceni.gov.uk/the-forestry-bill.htm
Notes to Editors:
1. Following the introduction of the Forestry Bill to the Assembly on 29 June 2009, the Second Stage of the Bill through the Assembly was agreed on Tuesday 15 September. The Bill now stands referred to the Agriculture and Rural Development Committee, who will carry out a detailed investigation and report back to the Assembly. The legislation is not expected to come into operation until 2010.
2. The Forestry Strategy was developed through two major consultations of the industry and key stakeholders: “Forestry in NI” (June 2002) and “Options for Forestry” (December 2004); this culminated in “A Strategy for Sustainability and Growth” (March 2006).
3. The introduction of a Forestry Bill has been warmly welcomed by the Department of Environment and the Department for Enterprise, Trade and Investment. The Department of Environment recognises that the Bill will help the Department to deliver its biodiversity obligations, and supports its potential to contribute to public access, recreation, tourism and the rural economy. The Department for Enterprise, Trade and Investment welcomes the opportunity provided by the Bill to develop forestry land for purposes such as tourism initiatives.
4. Statutory pedestrian access will not apply to private or other public owned forests.
5. There are nine forest parks in the north of Ireland which provide parking, picnic sites and a range of walks and attractions. In addition, there are over 100 forests that provide some recreational facilities, including woodland walks.
6. The Forest Service manages 76,000ha of forest land, broadly comprised of conifer plantations, open upland areas, broadleaved woodland, open space within forests, and recreational and amenity areas. Management conforms with sustainability criteria, and as a result forests provide a balance of economic, environmental and social benefits to the people of the north.
7. All media queries should be directed to the DARD Press Office on 028 9052 4619. Out of office hours please contact the duty press officer via pager number 07699 715440 and your call will be returned.
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