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Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 4 Nov 1998

Vol. 496 No. 1

Written Answers. - Afforestation Programme.

Michael Bell

Question:

60 Mr. Bell asked the Minister for the Marine and Natural Resources the level of forestry planting over the past five years; the increases, if any, in planting following the increase in the premium rates announced by his Department in March 1998; the plans, if any, his Department has to encourage further planting and job creation in this important sector; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21862/98]

The level of new forestry planting which was grant aided over the last five years was as follows:

1993

15,998 hectares

1994

19,459 hectares

1995

23,710 hectares

1996

20,981 hectares

1997

11,434 hectares

Grant aided planting in the current year is estimated at 16,000 hectares. It should be noted that, exceptionally, grant aid in respect of 2,500 hectares planted in 1997 was not paid until early this year.
As well as vigorous promotional campaigns, the measures I have taken to encourage afforestation since coming to office include an increase of approximately 13.5 per cent in afforestation grant and premium rates announced last November; an advance in payment dates of first year premiums since last month, first year premiums are being paid virtually in tandem with afforestation grants rather than 12 months later as was previously the position; discussions which are taking place at present with relevant agencies on a possible role for REPS planners in relation to afforestation.
Overall it is estimated that there are at present approximately 16,000 people employed in the forestry sector. The strategic plan for the development of the forestry sector, published in 1996, envisages an increase in employment of 11,000 in the context of the implementation of the plan by the year 2020.
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