asked the Minister for Lands what progress has been made regarding the acquisition of lands for State afforestation purposes in the Kilchreest, Roxboro-Castledaly and Peterswell districts of South Galway.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Afforestation in South Galway.
12.
Lands acquired for State forestry purposes in the areas in question are attached to Loughrea, Castledaly and Athenry Forests. The total productive area of those forests on 31st March, 1959, was 5,952 acres, of which a total of 4,244 acres had been planted, leaving a plantable reserve of 1,708 acres. Provisional planting programmes for the three forests for 1959/60 total 653 acres.
Prospects of further expansion in the areas mentioned by the Deputy are good. Agreement to purchase nine areas totalling 977 acres has been reached and titles are being investigated. Negotiations for the purchase of five other areas totalling 552 acres are in progress. In addition, there are a number of cases at the preliminary investigation stages.