asked the Minister for Tourism, Fisheries and Forestry if sufficient Christmas trees will be available from Irish forests this year to meet demands; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - Christmas Trees.
31.
The number of Christmas trees available this year from State forests is 130,000. Inquiries suggest that, if they had been available, up to 20 per cent more trees could be absorbed by the market.
My Department have already taken steps to increase the supply of Christmas trees to meet demand but the Deputy will appreciate that it takes up to eight years to produce Christmas trees of an acceptable size. It is my policy to encourage production of Christmas trees of all species for which a market exists or can be promoted.