Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 11 Nov 2003

Vol. 574 No. 1

Written Answers. - Afforestation Programme.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

332 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the total acreage currently under forestry; the total acreage planted and harvested in the past 12 months; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26578/03]

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

The total land area under afforestation at 31 December 2002 was 680,000 hectares. It is estimated that the total planting outturn for 2003 will be in the region of 10,000 hectares. The total area harvested in 2002 was 7,553 hectares. Harvesting figures for 2003 are not yet available.