asked the Minister for Lands whether he is aware of the necessity for an increase in the planting of hardwoods such as oak, beech, birch, ash and sycamore; and what plans he has for securing such increase in the immediate future.

The planting of hardwoods has been significantly expanded in recent years as part of the general expansion of the State planting programme, and I am advised that the present rate of planting is adequate to cater for any foreseeable demand for these species in the long-term.

In view of the cut-back in this Estimate, would the Minister state if he is going to have a pro rata cut-back in hardwoods?

To which cut-back is the Deputy referring?

On forestry.

There is much more— I think ten times more—provided in this year's Estimate for forestry than was ever provided by the Deputy's friends in the inter-Party Government. I will have to draw a picture for the Deputy.