As previously indicated, the application for higher forestry incentives submitted to the European Commission by the Irish Administration last August proposed increased premium levels for those who planted under Council Regulation 2080/92 as well as for those proposing to plant in the current season. However, because of the protracted nature of the discussions with the Commission, I decided that the primary focus would have to be on securing increases which would have an impact on planting in the current season. The substantial increases announced by me on 6 March achieved that objective.
As I indicated on that occasion, it is the intention now to pursue the question of adequate increases for those who planted in earlier years. The matter was raised by me last week with Commissioner Fischler and is now being pursued at official level. I will remain in close contact with developments.