asked the Minister for Lands if he will make a statement on the future of the Forestry Branch of his Department; and if he will state whether larger sums are to be provided for forestry purposes in view of large-scale unemployment, and the numerous offers of land for planting; and whether a greater number will be employed at this work of great national importance.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Future of Forestry Branch.
I am uncertain as to the meaning of the first part of the Deputy's question. I made a general statement on the future of the Forestry Division of my Department when introducing the Forestry Estimate for the current year and I hope to make a further statement on the subject when the Estimate for 1958-59 comes before the House.
In regard to the remainder of the Deputy's question, I do not think it would be desirable to anticipate the issue of the Estimates Volume for 1958-59 but I can say that the Forestry Estimate for 1958-59 was prepared on a basis which will permit of increased employment in the coming year.
I can assure the Deputy that land acquisition for forestry is being pressed ahead. A greater area will be acquired this year than ever before and the planting programme will be enlarged next year.
We can take it then that there will be more employed? Will the Minister say why he anticipated the introduction of the Estimate for his Department when he announced at Mallow that he would acquire the same planting area at a saving of £200,000? How does he propose to do that?
The Deputy will learn that on the Estimate.