Following on last month's Budget Vote in the National Assembly, I am tabling the budget of R2,7 billion, which will be reprioritised according to the new mandate of the ruling party and the department, allowing us to fulfil our functions as a catalyst to stimulate the rural economy. The implementation of the Forest Sector Transformation and Growth Charter will provide extension support services to forestry entrepreneurs and co- operatives with specific focus on rural areas, where we will ensure the provision of fibre and renewable energy supply and develop fuel-wood strategies to ensure a sustainable supply of wood.