Vol. 502 No. 5
30 Mr. Howlin asked the Minister for the Marine and Natural Resources the plans, if any, his Department has regarding the conservation and regeneration of native tree species in the interests of future generations; the level of planting of native trees in the past five years; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7718/99]
The two principal native species in Ireland are the broadleaf species of oak and ash. Under the Government approved Strategic Plan for the Development of the Forestry Sector, the annual target for broadleaf planting is 20 per cent. This target is now being met, the bulk of it from native species, and compares very favourably with the early years of this decade when broadleaf planting was only at 3 per cent to 4 per cent. I am particularly anxious to see a reintroduction of native hardwoods. Under Council Directive 66/404/EEC a national register of seed stands including native oak and ash, is maintained. Applicants under the national afforestation programme are advised where possible to use plants derived from home collected seed from registered seed stands.
