Theresa Ahearn
Question:20 Mrs. T. Ahearn asked the Minister for Energy if he is concerned at the critically low level of forestry research, especially at a time when the industry is expanding.
Written Answers. - Forestry Research.
Theresa Ahearn
Question:63 Mrs. T. Ahearn asked the Minister for Energy if he will make a statement on the establishment of COFORD to coordinate research into forestry; and the resources which have been made available for this purpose.
I propose to take Questions Nos. 20 and 63 together.
My aim is to strengthen and develop research activities to complement and underpin the expanded forestry programme.
An amount of £900,000 has been allocated in the 1992 Estimates for forestry research representing a 50 per cent increase over the 1991 provision. This increased provision will enable me to establish COFORD, the estimated cost of which to the end of 1993 is in excess of £300,000.