asked the Minister for Energy if he has examined future planting targets; and if he will outline his projections on the ratio between semi-private and private operations for the next five years.
Written Answers. - Planting Policy.
33.
The proportion of private planting to public planting has increased substantially in recent years. In 1988 the level of private planting will, I believe, reach 5,000 hectares. This is equivalent to 50 per cent of public planting. I expect the level of private planting to increase further in future years, both in terms of the area planted and as a proportion of the overall national planting programme embracing the public and private sectors.
Given the relatively small area of land under forest in Ireland, as compared with our European Community partners, it is evident that a major national planting programme, both public and private, will be required over the coming years. When Coillte Teoranta are established I propose to discuss with them appropriate targets to be adopted for this purpose.