Seymour Crawford (Cavan-Monaghan, Fine Gael)
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Question 218: To ask the Minister for Agriculture and Food the number of acres which has been planted in forestry for each of the past ten years on a county basis; the number of acres she expects to grant aid in 2006; if she is satisfied that there will be a full take up of grants available; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12338/06]

Mary Coughlan (Donegal South West, Fianna Fail)
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The information sought by the Deputy is set out in the following table.

As regards planting levels in 2006, this is largely dependent on farmer demand. A most attractive package for forestry, including 100% planting grants and guaranteed tax-free premiums for 20 years for farmers, is in place. The concessions won in CAP reform, allowing farmers to plant up to 50% of their land and still draw down the full single payment on the rest, represents a significant increase in the attractiveness of forestry.

Since the start of 2005 my Department has approved 25,000 hectares of land for planting but many landowners have yet to act on these approvals. I would encourage all those who hold such approvals to act upon them immediately.