asked the Minister for Lands whether he is prepared to give his support and that of the Forestry Division to the organisation of an Arbor Week.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Organisation of Arbor Week.
The expansion of afforestation is an important feature of Government policy. While the main object is the establishment of the maximum area under State forests, the Government is also anxious to encourage and foster the planting of trees by private individuals and groups of individuals. In many areas there is a tendency to assume that tree-planting is the duty or responsibility of the Forestry Division only, and anything which would make the community as a whole, appreciate the benefits and importance of private tree-planting, is deserving of every support.
A successful Arbor Week could do much to promote tree-planting as a matter of course and also awaken a desire to maintain our already inadequate woodlands. It is essential, however, that such a project should be carefully planned to ensure that the selection of sites, fencing, plant selection and planting would be properly done. The forestry staff of my Department will give any advice and assistance that may be needed on these important matters. My general support can be counted upon.
Would it be possible for the Minister and the Department, instead of giving advice, to give a lead in this important matter?
I do not quite know what kind of lead the Deputy would suggest. This is supposed to be a voluntary undertaking. To the extent that we are in a position to give advice or assistance we will do everything possible. If we are to give up the idea of having an Arbor Week voluntarily organised and supported, that is quite a different matter.
Would it not be possible for the Minister and the Department, through communications with various county committees of agriculture, to stir up a little more voluntary activity in the various counties? Could there not be a genuine national lead from the Department?
I can quite see the Deputy's point of view but I can assure him that the forestry inspectors and staff are very busy men at the present time and I doubt very much that Deputies would be pleased with me if I were to take them from the duties upon which they are busily engaged at present to put them organising this work. I have indicated in my reply that I am willing to give all the assistance possible.
I wonder would the Minister consider discussing the matter with the Minister for Education with a view to requesting the schools to take local initiative in the matter of promoting local Arbor Weeks? Schools could be of tremendous assistance.
Certainly. I would be very pleased to mention the matter to the Minister for Education. I think, however, the initiative must come from those voluntary bodies who are interested.