Donie Cassidy (Westmeath, Fianna Fail)
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Question 93: To ask the Minister for Agriculture and Food the prospects for forestry planting in 2006. [12197/06]

Mary Coughlan (Donegal South West, Fianna Fail)
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The prospects for planting in 2006 are 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 land-owners have yet to act on these approvals. I encourage all those who hold such approvals to act upon them immediately.