§ 30. Sir J. LONSDALEasked the Chief Secretary if his attention has been directed to the excessive cutting of timber in Ireland during the past two years; and what steps are being taken by Government departments to promote the replanting of trees?
§ Mr. DUKEThe Department of Agriculture and Technical Instruction have taken steps to maintain the supply of timber by preserving woodlands, planting as far as funds are available, distributing trees, and advising farmers as to planting. In Ireland the consent of the Department is required before the proprietor of land, purchased or agreed to be purchased since the passing of the Irish Land Act, 1909, can cut down any tree on his holding. The whole question of reafforestation is engaging the attention of the Government.