asked the Minister for Tourism, Fisheries and Forestry the total volume and value of the output from State forests in 1985; if this was in line with the forecast; and if he will make a statement on current trends in 1986.
Written Answers. - State Forests.
135.
The volume of timber sold from State forests in 1985 was 1.22 million cubic metres against a projected output of 1.25 million cubic metres. Receipts from the sale of timber in that year were £16,675,000. I anticipate that sales in 1986 will be of a similar order. Sales in the first quarter of the year are on target.
136.
asked the Minister for Tourism, Fisheries and Forestry if any amenity development will be undertaken on State forestries in 1986; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Due to the present economic situation and the constraints on public expenditure the Department is not contemplating any new amenity development in State forests in 1986 but the funds available will be fully utilised in maintaining the present amenity facilities.
137.
asked the Minister for Tourism, Fisheries and Forestry the developments which will be undertaken in State forests in 1986 on the provision of access roads etc; and if any additional personnel will be employed.
My Department is at present finalising its road-making and repair programme for 1986 having regard to the level of funds available for labour and materials in the Forestry Vote.
The bulk of the work will comprise the provision of access roads to plantations coming due for first thinning, management roads for new planting sites, upgrading of existing access roads and some amenity work.
In 1985, approximately 140 k.m. of roads were completed and it is envisaged that the 1986 programme will be of a similar order. The employment of additional staff specifically for road works is not envisaged.