Investment in 2000 and 2001 under the marine and natural resources NDP schemes amounted to almost €305 million representing 66% of targeted investment over that period. This reflects significant progress when account is taken of the delays in finalising the operational programmes and programme complements, the impact of the foot and mouth disease outbreak and delays in obtaining EU State aid approval.
Under the NDP €916 million has been provided for forestry of which €688 million is co-funded under the CAP rural development fund. A further €228 million has been provided under the regional operational programmes and the productive sector programme to improve existing woodlands, develop urban and amenity woodlands, re-establish forest plantations and to generally enhance forest infrastructure. Total investment to the end of 2001 under NDP forestry schemes amounted to €198 million, representing more than 80% of targeted investment.