2747. Deputy Malcolm Byrne asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the progress made by persons (details supplied) to plant forests to offset the carbon footprint of Adare hosting the Ryder Cup; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [62386/26]

The Minister welcomes and supports progress being made by persons and organisations seeking to establish new forests to help offset the carbon footprint associated with the hosting of the Ryder Cup in Adare in 2027.

My Department provides a range of supports for the establishment of new forests through the Afforestation Scheme in the Forestry Programme 2023–2027. These supports are available to eligible landowners seeking to establish new forests, subject to the relevant scheme requirements and the normal afforestation licensing and environmental assessment processes.

The establishment of new forests can provide a lasting environmental legacy beyond the event itself, delivering long-term benefits including carbon sequestration, biodiversity enhancement and an increase in Ireland’s overall forest cover.

I therefore support efforts to identify suitable lands and progress to plant forests to help offset the carbon footprint associated with hosting the Ryder Cup in 2027. My Department remains available to provide information and guidance on the forestry supports available and to assist those seeking to progress suitable afforestation applications through the Forestry Programme 2023-2027. Any applications brought forward will be considered through the normal application, environmental assessment and licensing processes.