asked the Minister for Agriculture if he will state what progress his Department has made in the Counties of Carlow and Kilkenny, in respect of afforestation, whether any schemes are in contemplation at present, and, if so, whether he intends to expedite such schemes, whereby much needed employment can be given to the unemployed in these counties.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Afforestation in Carlow and Kilkenny.
Areas of land in Counties Carlow and Kilkenny amounting to 1,586 acres have been acquired by the Department by lease and purchase for the purpose of afforestation. Actual possession of 1,096 acres has been secured. Of this area, 650 acres were planted up to the end of last planting season, and it is anticipated that in the current season a further 100 acres will be planted. The Department are prepared to consider any offers of suitable land in these counties, as elsewhere, and some offers are at present under consideration. Negotiations for the acquisition of additional areas in these counties are, however, not sufficiently advanced to enable possession to be secured during the present winter. The matter will be expedited as much as possible.