Mr. WILLIAM REDMONDasked the Chief Secretary if he will state what steps 428 the Development Commission have taken to promote forestry in Ireland; and what sum of money has been allotted for that purpose in the coming year?
§ Mr. BIRRELLThe Development Commissioners have recommended that certain advances should be made to the Department of Agriculture in Ireland from the Development Fund for the purpose of afforestation in Ireland. Negotiations are in progress as to various details connected with the Department's proposals, and the Department are not at present in a position to state what sum will be, allotted for the purpose in the coming financial year.
Mr. WILLIAM REDMONDAre we to understand from the right hon. Gentleman that the work of forestry is to be proceeded with seriously in Irelaad, and the recommendations of the recent Committee on that subject carried out?
§ Mr. BIRRELLThere is no doubt whatever about it.
Mr. WILLIAM REDMONDCan the right hon. Gentleman give us a reassuring answer in this respect as to the statement at one time made that no progress could be made with forestry in Ireland until a scheme had been prepared for Great Britain? Will it be borne in mind that in Ireland this matter has been discussed and a scheme has been prepared in advance of anything done for Great Britain?
§ Mr. BIRRELLI think we shall proceed in Ireland on our own account.