Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 11 Jun 2003

Vol. 568 No. 2

Written Answers. - Afforestation Programme.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

170 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the progress in the forestry industry with particular reference to the number of trees planted by species in each of the past five years; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16182/03]

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

171 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the number of trees harvested in each of the past five years; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16183/03]

Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources (Mr. D. Ahern)

I propose to take Questions Nos. 170 and 171 together.

The total area – hectares – of afforestation grant aided by my Department in each of the past five years was as follows:

	1998	1999	2000	2001	2002
Conifers
Sitka Spruce	6970	6890	9335	9378	8818
Scots Pine	1045	682	654	610	449
Norway Spruce	1430	1551	1449	1265	1183
Other Conifers	1422	1630	2230	2288	1981
Broadleaves
Oak	530	454	328	366	563
Beech	67	59	42	67	97
Others	1462	1401	1657	1490	1963
Total	12926	12667	15695	15464	15054

The total area (hectares) harvested in each of the last five years was as follows:

	1998	1999	2000	2001	2002
Total	8350	8500	9119	9217	7553