asked the Minister for Fisheries and Forestry if, in view of the position of reduced work forces in the forests of east Clare and the recent policy where retirement vacancies are not filled, he will examine the situation with a view to increased production and more jobs.

Generally speaking, overall employment in east Clare forests has been maintained at a fairly constant level in recent years. However, in times of financial stringency it is not always possible to fill vacancies except where the existing work force in a forest is considered to be inadequate for essential operations. The possibility of expanding employment in this locality, as elsewhere, is kept constantly under review.