asked the Minister for Lands whether, in view of the extensive cutting of trees throughout the country due to the present fuel shortage, he will consider the holding of an annual arbor week with a view to stimulating the planting of trees.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Encouragement of Tree-Planting.
Except in urban areas, the felling of trees is controlled under the Forestry Act, 1928, and the Minister has power to make it a condition of any licence to fell that one or more trees be planted to replace any tree cut down. Adequate replanting conditions are imposed in all cases where any appreciable number of trees is being felled.
No good purpose would be served by planting trees unless they can be protected against stock and rabbits, and fencing materials of all descriptions are scarce, rabbit netting being practically unprocurable. It is also understood that stocks in the public nurseries are below the average of prewar years.
In these circumstances, the time does not seem opportune for the introduction of an arbor day or arbor week.