Mr Carrol has taken over the role from Séamus Neely and will serve until 31 October 2028.

Based in the Agriculture Appeals Office (AAO) in Portlaoise, the FAC was established as an independent appeals body, under the Agriculture Appeals Act, 2001, as amended.

The committee hears appeals from applicants or third parties against Department decisions on licences in respect of afforestation, tree felling, forest road works and aerial fertilisation.

Michael Healy-Rae, minister of state with responsibility for forestry, farm safety and horticulture, said: “Mr Carrol brings a wealth of experience and expertise to the important role of chair of the Forestry Appeals Committee, and I wish him the very best in his new role.”

He added: “I would like to acknowledge Séamus Neely’s excellent work in chairing and overseeing an effective and responsive appeals process over the last few years, and I wish him well in the future.

“I would also like to thank the deputy chairpersons, all the members of the committee and the staff of the Agriculture Appeals Office for their continued contribution in ensuring an effective and efficient appeals service for the forestry sector.”

Mr Carrol said: “The FAC is a critical part of the national forestry infrastructure, serving to ensure that access to information, decision making and justice as provided for in the Aarhus Convention and the provisions of the Agriculture Appeals Act, 2001 are fully realised.

“I am delighted to take on this important role of chair and to continue to build on the great work of my predecessor.”

Mr Carrol was a chartered quantity surveyor for 13 years before re-training as a barrister in 1990.

He practised on the South Western Circuit and then joined the Office of the Attorney General in 2001 as advisory counsel.

He worked in a number of areas in the AG’s office, but in later years was primarily advising on planning and environmental matters before retiring in 2024.