asked the Minister for Fisheries and Forestry if, in view, of the massive increase in production from State forests, he will consider setting up a chemical pulp mill in Waterford in conjunction with Munster Chipboard to process the additional timber.

The Industrial Development Authority in consultation with my Department are at present engaged in a sectoral study of the timber industry. Pending completion of the study I would prefer not to speculate on the location or type of industry which will use the wood resources, now coming on stream in increasing volume, to best national advantage.

Is such a mill desirable?

Yes, we need a further sophisticated dimension to our timber processing activities.

Does the Minister see a distinct possibility of such an industry being set up in the near future?

Yes, I would hope so.

23.