Sir, - Mr Ray Monahan (January 2nd) alleges, inter alia, the transformation of historic Irish landscapes into massive plantations of American conifers.
The Government's strategic plan for the forestry sector in Ireland provides a long-term framework for development from nurseries right through to timber product industries. It encompasses a range of related issues such as increased added-value, developing new competencies and skills and multiple benefit returns. In the process the plan aims for the creation of sustainable employment for 11,000 people on top of the 16,000 already employed in the forestry sector.
Contrary to the views expressed by Mr Monahan, it is not accepted that current forestry development damages the tourism industry. Currently some 8 per cent of the State's land area is forestry planted. This compares with a European average of 30 per cent. In addition, the Forest Service of this Department administers a wide range of environmental controls and all grant-aided forestry development must be compatible with the protection of the environment.
These controls include strict adherence to published landscape guidelines. Where specific environmental considerations are identified, such as the existence of an outstanding landscape or scenic zoning on a local development plan, other State agencies and local authorities are consulted in advance.
It is not the policy of this Department to grant aid monoculture in conifer plantations. All grant-aided conifer plantations must have at least 20 per cent of species other than sitka spruce or lodgepole pine. The strategic plan also stipulates that afforestation in broad-leaved varieties be increased to 20 per cent of the annual total, reflecting Irish traditional and historic woodland. - Yours, etc.,
From Denis Maher
Press Officer, Department of the Marine and Natural Resources, Dublin 2.