P. J. Sheehan
Ceist:30 Mr. Sheehan asked the Minister for the Marine and Natural Resources the number of applications approved by his Department for grant aid under the urban forestry and the amenity forestry schemes in 1996 and 1997. [12270/98]
Written Answers. - Afforestation Programme.
My Department currently operates two schemes of grant aid for investment under the Operational Programme for Agriculture, Rural Development and Forestry 1994-99, promoting the growth of trees in both urban and amenity areas. The urban woodland scheme is confined to local authorities and to land owned or managed by them. It covers the improvement of existing woodlands, the establishment of new woodlands and the provision within such woodlands of facilities such as paths, walks, play areas, seats, signs and so forth.
The amenity woodland scheme is open to other woodland owners and covers the improvement of existing woodlands and the provision of recreational or amenity facilities in relation to, for example, equestrian activities, walking, rambling, orienteering and a variety of activity sports.
Grant-aid approvals in respect of both schemes for the years in question are as follows:
|
Scheme |
1996 |
1997 |
|
Urban |
nil |
6 |
|
Amenity |
nil |
4 |