€73m in commitments to forestry

EXPENDITURE in 2004 of up to €73 million on contractual commitments that have arisen in the forestry area in recent years was announced last night by Agriculture and Food Minister Joe Walsh.

He told the Coillte annual staff conference dinner in Kilkenny that the bulk of the expenditure - some €51m by way of premium - will be paid to farmers who have already taken a forestry option.

In addition to the €73m, he also announced his decision to renew the government's commitment to what is known as the support programme for forestry.