asked the Minister for Lands if he will state (1) the total acreage of the forest lands at Coolgreany, County Wexford; (2) the number of acres planted within the past 15 years; (3) the number of acres of plantation that still require cleaning and thinning; (4) the average weekly number of men employed for the past 12 months, and (5) the amount of money provided for maintenance in the present financial year.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Afforestation.
The particulars regarding Coolgreany forest, which is situated in Counties Wexford and Wicklow, are as follows:—(1) 1,291 acres; (2) 865 acres; (3) thinning is a recurring process and over 1,000 acres will require thinning from time to time; (4) 18 men; (5) £2,032. Maintenance does not, of course, include ground preparation and planting.
Is the Minister satisfied that sufficient men are engaged there and that sufficient money is allocated for that forest in order to keep it in condition in so far as planting, pruning and so on are concerned?
Quite satisfied.
Is the Minister aware that the general opinion of the farmers in the district is that this forest has been neglected and that great damage is being done because a sufficient number of men are not employed there for cleaning and thinning purposes?
That is not my information. The forestry people themselves are quite satisfied that the thinning process is just as it should be at the moment.
And cleaning?
There are many factors which have to be taken into account in the proper development of trees. In one case it may be advisable to thin early and in another it may be advisable to allow the trees to run on for a few years longer.
If more money is required for the employment of more men will it be made available?
There is no shortage of either men or money in this particular case. We have no difficulties there.
asked the Minister for Lands if he is in a position to indicate the present proposals in regard to afforestation in South Cork constituency area and if he will state the particular areas that are considered suitable for the purpose.
Negotiations have been concluded for the purchase of substantial areas near Blarney, Killavullen, Dunmanway and Bweeng. As soon as possession of the lands is obtained, forestry operations will commence. As regards existing forests, it is proposed to plant 100 acres in the Bandon forest and 94 acres at Lisgoold.
It would not be feasible to enumerate the various plots in the constituency which are suitable for afforestation. If the Deputy requires information as to any particular area, perhaps he would communicate with me.
Mr. Brady
asked the Minister for Lands if he will say how many acres of land in County Dublin have been planted with trees since 18th February, 1948, and where these plantations are situated.
The Forestry Division planted 315 acres at Killakee and Ballycorus during the past two planting seasons.