Afforestation Programme.

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 1 July 2008

Tuesday, 1 July 2008

Ceisteanna (70)

Brendan Howlin

Ceist:

138 Deputy Brendan Howlin asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food his views on a relaxation of the replanting obligation which would have a positive effect on the levels of afforestation and the value and competitiveness of land under forestry; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25554/08]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food (Deputy Brendan Smith)

In the new Forestry Bill, which will replace the 1946 Forestry Act, it is proposed to take a more flexible approach regarding the question of replanting after harvesting. However, the general principle of replanting after felling will remain in order to ensure that the national forest estate is maintained.