Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Forestry Products.
- North-west forestry products study 2 speeches
The Minister said studies of sawmilling and pulpwood were complete; expansion plans for four north-western sawmills had been approved, while attracting pulpwood-industry investment remained difficult.
Neil T.C. Blaney, Brian Lenihan Snr.
- Domestic timber sales and imports 3 speeches
L’Estrange highlighted timber imports, unsold Irish timber and closing firms. The Chair ruled the matter outside the question’s scope, but L’Estrange reiterated the concern.
Gerald L'Estrange, Joseph Brennan
asked the Minister for Fisheries and Forestry if he has received the report on the utilisation of forestry products in the north-west.
Comment on this
The Industrial Development Authority in consultation with my own Department have completed their overall study of the sawmilling sector. As a result of decisions taken on the basis of that study, I understand that plans for the expansion of four sawmills in the North Western Region have been approved by the IDA to date.
The study of the pulpwood sector has also been completed, but in view of the current recession in that sector greater difficulty has been experienced in attracting investment for pulpwood using industries. The IDA are pursuing a vigorous campaign to attract suitable industry but it is not possible, at this stage, to indicate where such industries might be located.
Comment on this
Is the Minister aware that millions of pounds worth of timber is being imported each year into this country which could be grown here in Ireland, that the timber grown in Ireland cannot be sold at present and that firms are closing? Has the Minister any plans to do anything about this serious problem which stays with us?
Comment on this
The question on the Order Paper relates to forestry products and that does not permit a question on forestry being asked.