Michael Ring (Mayo, Fine Gael)
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Question 1622: To ask the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food his plans with regard to the annual Forestry Planting Programme of 10,000 hectares in view of the impact any reduction in this programme will have on employment of forestry workers and on the environment; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34092/10]

Brendan Smith (Cavan-Monaghan, Fianna Fail)
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The Government is committed to ensuring the continuation of the afforestation programme at a rate that maximises the use of available financial resources. My Department, in the context of the Estimates process for 2011, is reviewing its commitments to ensure that priority needs, including forestry, are met. I am fully aware of the need to maximise funding for forestry in what are difficult times for the public finances.