asked the Minister for Lands whether he is aware of the necessity for an increase in the planting of hardwoods such as oak, beech, birch, ash and sycamore; and what plans he has for securing such increase in the immediate future.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Planting of Hardwoods.
21.
The planting of hardwoods has been significantly expanded in recent years as part of the general expansion of the State planting programme, and I am advised that the present rate of planting is adequate to cater for any foreseeable demand for these species in the long-term.
In view of the cut-back in this Estimate, would the Minister state if he is going to have a pro rata cut-back in hardwoods?
To which cut-back is the Deputy referring?
On forestry.
There is much more— I think ten times more—provided in this year's Estimate for forestry than was ever provided by the Deputy's friends in the inter-Party Government. I will have to draw a picture for the Deputy.