asked the Minister for Fisheries and Forestry the plans, if any, which exist for the development of forestry as an industry capable of providing substantial employment.

Under the on-going State afforestation programme, employment is provided for some 2,700 workers. Moreover, following a detailed joint study carried out by the IDA and the Forest and Wildlife Service, a mediumterm plan for industrial development, based on produce of the State forest, was published by the IDA last July in a comprehensive document entitled "Developing the Timber Industry for the 80s". I am informed that a copy of this publication is available in the Library. I understand that the plan, which embraces both the pulpwood and sawmilling sectors, is being implemented by the IDA.

15.

asked the Minister for Fisheries and Forestry the number engaged in forestry in Countries Carlow and Kilkenny.

I presume the question relates to industrial employment in the State forests. The number of men employed in forests in Counties Carlow and Kilkenny at a recent date was 30 and 68, respectively.