Tony Killeen (Clare, Fianna Fail)

Deputy Sheehan will be aware of the Malone report, which examined all of the issues mentioned by him, as well as a number of other issues that affect the acreage being afforested each year. The report contains 18 principal recommendations, some of which are being implemented at present and some of which refer to the FEPS programme. One recommendation, which specifically proposed the reduction of the minimum area to be planted from eight to five hectares, is being implemented at present. In addition, a working group is to be established in fulfilment of one of the main recommendations and the Department looks forward to working closely with it to deal with the issues raised by Deputy Sheehan and others to try to ensure the target rate of planting can be achieved.

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