Vol. 488 No. 3
47 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for the Marine and Natural Resources the action, if any, he intends to take to promote the growth of trees in town and country, excluding forestry situations; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6076/98]
My Department currently operates two schemes of grant aid for investment under the Operational Programme for Agriculture, Rural Development and Forestry 1994-99, promoting the growth of trees in both urban and amenity areas as follows.
The urban woodland scheme is confined to local authorities and to land owned or managed by them. It covers the improvement of existing woodlands, the establishment of new woodlands and the provision within such woodlands of facilities such as paths, walks, play areas, seats, signs etc. Community involvement, which has been shown in other countries to be vital to the success of urban woodland projects is being particularly encouraged.
The amenity woodland scheme is open to other woodland owners and covers the improvement of existing woodlands and the provision of recreational or amenity facilities in relation to e.g. equestrian activities, walking, rambling, orienteering and a variety of activity sports.
