asked the Minister for Lands if in view of the growing importance of afforestation he will consider the publication of the report on forestry annually and the question of embodying in the annual report particulars of the voluntary efforts made in regard to arbor week.
Ceisteanna-Questions. Oral Answers. - Forestry Reports.
A composite report covering the three years 1st April, 1950, to 31st March, 1953, is at present in course of preparation with a view to having it published at the earliest possible date. It is proposed to publish subsequent reports annually. As regards the second part of the Deputy's question, it would be inappropriate to include particulars of the type suggested in a statutory report covering the activities of the Department under the Forestry Acts, 1946.
I am glad the Minister will in future publish the report annually. Does the Minister not consider that it would be helpful if these annual reports could be utilised for the purpose of fostering and publicising the voluntary effort that is being made by a number of voluntary organisations in relation to afforestation?
I do not think that would be the most satisfactory way of publicising the work of these voluntary bodies, apart from the other point I mentioned.