Michael Healy-Rae (Kerry South, Independent)
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Question 440: To ask the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food his views on a matter (details supplied) regarding forestry. [21248/11]

Simon Coveney (Cork South Central, Fine Gael)
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I am fully aware of the importance of forestry to job creation and national economic recovery and I am committed to supporting the continued expansion of Ireland's forest resource.

All applications submitted to my Department for approval to undertake afforestation are examined by reference to the silvicultural and environmental suitability of the site for forestry. This includes an assessment of issues such as soil type, soil fertility, exposure etc., along with an assessment of the potential impact of the project on water quality, landscapes and nature conservation. My Department cannot use Exchequer funds to support the establishment of new forests in areas that are silviculturally unsuitable for forestry or where forestry may negatively impact on the environment.

In 2011, the Government has provided sufficient funds to support the establishment of 7,500 hectares of new forests. The bulk of this planting will be undertaken by farmers. I am satisfied that the budget allocation will be fully utilised and that there are no regulatory barriers to achieving this level of afforestation in 2011.

Michael Healy-Rae (Kerry South, Independent)
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Question 441: To ask the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if he will review a matter in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Kerry. [21255/11]

Simon Coveney (Cork South Central, Fine Gael)
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Regarding forestry contract CN24699, all payments due to date on this contract have been paid. The most recent payment was made on 14 July 2011. The applicant has been informed that, following a recent inspection of this plantation, the inspector advises the applicant to monitor for deer damage, fertilize where necessary and maintain the fire lines. Therefore, there are currently no issues to review in respect of this contract.

As regards forestry contract CN12709, I have already explained that the issue of farmer status for the person named in respect of this contract has been decided on appeal and that this decision stands in the absence of new substantive evidence.