Seán Barrett (Dún Laoghaire, Fine Gael)
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Question 68: To ask the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the predicted decrease made by his Department in planting due to the reduction in forestry premiums; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20154/09]

Brendan Smith (Cavan-Monaghan, Fianna Fail)
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Maintaining an active afforestation programme was an important consideration in deciding how to make the most effective use of limited resources following the supplementary budget on April 7. New planting is a key element of the Government's overall strategy for forestry and I ensured that the funding for 5,500 hectares of new afforestation in 2009 has been maintained. I am confident that this level of planting will be achieved in 2009.

P J Sheehan (Cork South West, Fine Gael)
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Question 69: To ask the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the forecast made by him in increased unemployment in the forestry industry due to the reduction in forestry premiums; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20148/09]

Brendan Smith (Cavan-Monaghan, Fianna Fail)
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Maintaining an active afforestation programme is an important step in sustaining the forestry sector and all its related employment. Following the budget of April 7, funding for 5,500 hectares of new forestry planting in 2009 has been retained. I am confident that this level of planting will be achieved in 2009 given the continued availability of grants to cover establishment costs. Achievement of this level of planting will help to sustain the current levels of employment within the industry.