asked the Minister for Energy the major financial institutions and pension funds which are at present involved in forestry investment; and the efforts he is making to encourage others to participate directly in such investment.
Written Answers. - Forestry Investment.
162.
This year's expected record level of about 5,000 hectares of private afforestation underlines the success of measures taken by the Government to encourage forestry investment by this source. These efforts have attracted a wide range of private investors including farmers, private individuals and financial institutions. It would not be appropriate for me, however, to name particular investors.
The measures taken by the Government to encourage private forestry investment include: operation of generous afforestation grant schemes; provision of attractive tax reliefs and incentives; provision of a free technical advisory service; publication of promotional literature; seminars and illustrated talks by departmental staff; planting demonstrations, courses and field days; and ongoing publicity through articles and advertisements in the media and participation in various public events.
In addition, some immature forests have been offered for sale and have attracted interest from major financial institutions.