Vol. 504 No. 6
45 Mr. J. O'Keeffe asked the Minister for the Marine and Natural Resources if he has satisfied himself with the levels of forestry plantation over the past two years; and the proposals, if any, he has to encourage an increase. [12357/99]
The planting target set by the strategic plan for the forestry sector is 25,000 hectares annually to the year 2000, and 20,000 hectares annually thereafter to the year 2035.
The targets have not been met over the past two years. Total planting in 1997 was 11,043 hectares while the 1998 outturn was 12,928.
Apart from an extensive ongoing promotional campaign operated by the forest service of my Department a number of initiatives have been taken to encourage an increase in planting levels. These include a review of the existing afforestation grant and premium rates which is nearing completion; a recent mailshot promotion of forestry by Teagasc to make farmers aware of the economic benefits of forestry as a land use option; the possible integration of forestry in the REPS scheme operated by the Department of Agriculture and Food, and the setting up of a forestry industry forum to provide an opportunity for an exchange of views by all elements of the forestry sector with particular emphasis on the fall-off in planting.
