asked the Minister for Defence whether, in view of the present fuel crisis and the necessity for the utilisation of all available wood for fuel, he will consider forthwith rescinding Emergency Powers Order No. 169 relating to the felling of roadside trees by farmers.

asked the Minister for Defence if he is aware of the serious shortage of fuel in the Midlands, especially in Laoighis, where turf is not available for the people to burn; and if he will now permit the felling of roadside trees which the Forestry Department approve as only fit for firewood; and if he will indicate his reasons for not permitting the felling of such useless timber.

I propose to take Questions Nos. 42 and 43 together. It is not intended to revoke the Emergency Powers Orders relative to the felling of roadside trees. Certain modifications of the provisions of the Orders are, however, about to be effected, particulars of which will be made known in the Press and on the radio in the very near future.

Why not to the House?

I am telling the House now.

Arising out of the Parliamentary Secretary's reply, on behalf of the Minister for Defence, what is meant by "the very near future", because this is a matter of great gravity?

All the trees are not growing along the roads.

A good job.