asked the Minister for Fisheries and Forestry the total number employed in the timber industry in the country; and if he will give a break-down of those involved in (a) forestry, logging and transport; and (b) the processing sector.

The statistics sought by the Deputy are not available. It is, however, estimated that about 6,725 people are employed in the timber industry of whom 4,925 are employed in State and private forest undertakings and 1,800 in sawmilling and timber processing. Some logging and transportation employment would be included in both figures. The figures do not include any forward linkage such as conversion of wood and particle board into furniture or employment in the construction industry, which is also related.