The 26-page report produced for ministers by Philip Lee LLP states that suggestions Ireland “could adopt an alternative regulatory framework, by setting statutory standards and conditions, underpinned by appropriate levels of education, monitoring and enforcement” would not meet the requirements of EU law.

However, the report, produced by partner Alice Whittaker, makes a number of recommendations for improving the forestry licensing system and bringing it in line with rulings of the Court of Justice of the European Union (CJEU).

Senator Pippa Hackett, minister of state with responsibility for forestry, said: “This independent report was necessary to assess the extent to which forestry in Ireland is being appropriately regulated, and also importantly whether any improvements can be made to the licensing system while working within the parameters of Irish and EU environmental law.

“The report outlines changes in environmental law which have resulted in the increasingly complex regulatory framework that has ultimately led to delays in the issuing of forest licenses in recent years. It also makes recommendations which my department and I must now fully consider as we continue to reduce the backlog of forestry licence applications.

“The report is a valuable source of information and a reference document for everyone involved in forestry. It is comprehensive and was the subject of detailed stakeholder consultation with over 60 stakeholder meetings informing its final outcome. I encourage all stakeholders to read the report now in detail.

“In parallel, the project board which is leading on the implementation of Project Woodland will be studying closely the recommendations and working with my department on an action plan for implementation.”