To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (i) what species of trees are due to be planted through the afforestation programme, Forests for Our Future; and (ii) whether he can provide assurance that invasive non-native species will not be planted.

The Forests for Our Future programme will support tree planting that meets the UK Forestry Standard which is governments’ approach to sustainable forestry. The Standard describes that trees and shrubs for afforestation should be chosen from a diverse range of species which are well adapted to the site and with a sufficiently wide genetic base to promote future adaptation. This will help the woodland to be more resilient to climate change and keep a wide range of forest management options open for the owner.

The Wildlife and Natural Environment Act (Northern Ireland) 2011 defines invasive, non-native species and prohibits the sale of these plants such as Himalayan balsam, sea buckthorn and Japanese knotweed. The planting of these species and other unregulated non-native invasive species, such as rhododendron and cherry laurel will not be supported for planting under the Programme.