Vol. 515 No. 4
61 Mr. Sargent asked the Minister for the Marine and Natural Resources his views on whether the target of only 20% broadleaves prescribed in the 1996 strategic plan for forestry will lead to a serious reduction in Ireland's biodiversity in view of increasing knowledge of biodiversity. [6273/00]
Biodiversity refers to the range and variety of species which inhabit an ecosystem. It is my policy to achieve a balance between protection of the environment and other benefits such as rural development, employment and economic advancement. The concept of sustainable forest management is the stewardship of forests to meet the economic, environmental and social needs of today while not compromising the needs of future generations.
As outlined in the strategic plan for the development of the forestry sector in Ireland, the objective is to increase with due regard to site suitability and the attainment of the identified critical mass, the diversity of species in Irish forests, in order to achieve better timber quality, to extend the range of potential end-users, to reduce monocultures, for environmental and landscape purposes.
I am satisfied that the target of 20% will make a significant contribution to an increase in Ireland's biodiversity. I also propose to introduce a native woodland scheme to enhance and increase the size of the native-semi-native woodland estate. This should further enhance biodiversity.
