Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 30 May 2000

Vol. 520 No. 1

Written Answers. - Rural Development Plan.

Trevor Sargent

Question:

101 Mr. Sargent asked the Minister for the Marine and Natural Resources if he would release to Deputy Sargent, and to Ireland's concerned environmental NGOs, the 20 questions from the EU Commission's agricultural directorate concerning the role of forestry in the Rural Development Plan, 2000-2006; and if he will give an assurance that Ireland's concerned NGOs will be fully consulted in future environmental standards; and the economic mechanisms for achieving those standards in the forestry sector. [15350/00]

Minister for the Marine and Natural Resources (Mr. Fahey)

I assume the Deputy is referring to the European Commission's initial comments on the rural development plan.

I am in contact with the European Commission to establish whether it is willing to release the information requested. Subject to Commission agreement, the information referred to will be released.

The environmental NGOs will, as heretofore, be consulted on environmental standards. These standards in the forestry sector will be achieved through our linking grant/premium payments to compliance with such standards.