Is the Minister aware of the considerable disquiet about the monoculture in our timber industry? Is he aware that the pre-occupation with the various species of pine is causing extreme acidification of many of our rivers, particularly in his constituency, which is affecting fishing in those areas?

It is very important not to exaggerate the position. I am very conscious of the need to at all times follow an environmentally friendly policy. It would not be my wish that any activities of Coillte or the State in relation to afforestation should in any way damage our environment. It is clearly stated in the Acts in relation to afforestation projects that environmental considerations have to be carefully taken into account prior to decisions in relation to starting up planting operations. I would be very anxious to have the scientific information the Deputy may have that can be substantiated made available to my Department. He can be assured that if any evidence of that nature can be substantiated I will take whatever action is appropriate for me in order to ensure that we will not damage the environment through any activities of the forestry programme here.

The time has now come to deal with priority questions.