asked the Minister for Lands if it is lawful to trap hares and pheasants in State forests during the breeding season.

24.

asked the Minister for Lands if he is aware that hares and pheasants are being trapped during the breeding season in the State forest at Ballyheen, Castlelyons, County Cork; and if he will take immediate steps to prevent it.

I propose, with the permission of the Ceann Comhairle, to take Questions Nos. 23 and 24 together.

Under Section 59 of the Forestry Act, 1946, the Forestry Division is empowered to take and destroy hares on State Forest lands at any time of the year. Hares cause very serious damage to young trees and this power is essential for the protection of young plantations.

Hares have been causing serious damage to young beech trees at Ballabeen, Castlelyons and a number were trapped and destroyed recently. Two pheasants were accidentally caught in the traps.

Trapping has now stopped but if hares cause further damage it may have to be resumed.

Does that apply to rabbits also?

It would apply in State forests.

Could the Minister indicate what kind of traps were used?

That is a separate question.