Two free-to-attend information evenings are taking place next week in Co. Galway and Co. Cavan, focusing on the Windblow Reconstitution Scheme and 2026 grant eligibility.

Hosted by Forestry Services Ltd. and Euroforest Ireland, the events are intended to support forest owners, landowners, and Coillte partnership owners affected by Storm Éowyn.

The meetings will take place in the following locations:

Raheen Woods Hotel, Athenry, Co. Galway – Tuesday, June 9, 8:00p.m-9:00p.m;
Kilmore Hotel, Cavan Town, Co. Cavan – Wednesday, June 10, 8:00p.m-9:00pm.

Forestry Services Ltd. and Euroforest Ireland said: "The meetings are designed to provide practical guidance and up-to-date information on the options and supports available to those dealing with windblown forests."

Topics will include:

The Windblow Reconstitution Scheme and 2026 grant eligibility;
Land value and replanting considerations, including short and long-term projections;
Practical support on accessing grants and forestry management options.

Forestry Services Ltd. and Euroforest Ireland said: “We are keen to ensure that anyone affected by Storm Éowyn is aware that support and guidance are available.”

Windblow scheme

The 2026 Reconstitution Scheme for Windblown Forests has been open for applications since April.

The scheme provides a total package of €55 million of supports to forest owners affected by storms Darragh and Éowyn.

Details on the application process, mapping requirements and eligibility criteria is available on the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine (DAFM) website.

The level of financial support provided under this scheme depends on whether the forest was insured for the costs of reconstitution or uninsured for the costs of reconstitution at the time of storms Darragh and Éowyn. 

To avail of the Reconstitution Windblow Scheme 2026, a forest owner must engage a registered forester to apply for the scheme using the DAFM online system iNET.

Applicants to the scheme will need to hold a valid felling licence. The conditions of the felling licence will continue to apply.

The grant will be paid in two instalments: 75% of the grant in the year of replanting and the remaining 25% after four years.

Rates

The rates are outlined as follows:

Terms and conditions of the Reconstitution Scheme for Windblow 2026 along with FAQs are available at the Reconstitution Scheme for Windblow 2026 website.