I propose to take Questions Nos. 203 to 205, inclusive, together.
I am aware of the recent report of the European Environmental Agency on afforestation in Ireland. The figure in regard to peatbog planting quoted by the Deputy differs significantly from the information available to me. The information, captured through the grant application forms, for example, suggests a lower figure, consistent with that given in reply to Question No. 108 on 27 May 2004. My Department has requested copies of the datasets analysed in the European Environmental Agency report. The European Environmental Agency's report is based on satellite imagery and I am advised that it is difficult to classify soils accurately by using this process.
As regards controlling the afforestation of peatbogs, my Department has strict procedures in place. These procedures effectively rule out grant aid for planting on intact raised bogs of the midlands, or the impoverished oligotropic deep blanket peats of the west. In addition, areas protected, or listed for protection, under the habitats directive are not considered for grant aid without the prior agreement of the National Parks and Wildlife Service.
