Today\u2019s forestry event in Annandale \u2013 one of several rural summits I am holding across Scotland\u2013 is about listening to industry as part of my focus on building growth in our rural economy.<\/p>\n
In the case of forestry, this is an ideal moment as we have recently launched a consultation on plans to complete its devolution, safeguarding the future of one of Scotland\u2019s most precious assets.<\/p>\n
The forestry sector is at the heart of many rural communities, worth \u00a31 billion annually and supporting at least 25,000 jobs. It also plays a pivotal role in tackling climate change, protecting and growing biodiversity, natural flood management and in improving general health and wellbeing across Scotland.<\/p>\n
The discussion today and responses to the consultation will help inform and shape our policy, supporting forestry as one of our most important natural assets for generations to come, enabling businesses to play their part in driving forward the rural economy and ensuring that the sector continues to deliver for the nation and communities.<\/p>\n
This government is absolutely committed to the sector and planting more trees. Scotland created 83% of all new woodland in the UK in 2015-16 and has the most ambitious planting target in the UK of 10,000 hectares a year. This is a target I am determined to see delivered.<\/p>\n
To do so, however, more needs to be done. I am working closely with colleagues and partners on our Programme for Government commitment to speed up and streamline approval processes for sustainable planting schemes. It is important too that industry has an opportunity to provide views, experiences and ideas on ways we can improve yet further.<\/p>\n
New woodland creation will help strengthen forestry\u2019s contribution to our rural economy as well as helping to meet our climate change targets. With the industry\u2019s help, we will identify remaining barriers to growth and recommend potential actions to increase investment and boost jobs.<\/p>\n
I want to drive forward the rural economy as a whole and forestry has a crucial role to play in this. Clearly the best way to do that is by protecting our place in Europe and membership of the single market, which gives access to markets and workers.<\/p>\n
I expect all these issues to feature in the discussions at today\u2019s summit. Listening to the industry\u2019s views on these interlinked questions, both in Annandale today and in the second forestry summit that will be held in the north of Scotland near Aviemore in October, will help me and my Cabinet colleagues ensure that every step we take to support the industry is shaped and informed by those most closely involved in it.<\/p>\n