Victor Boyhan (Independent) | Oireachtas source

Senator Kyne is keen on green issues this afternoon. It is about time. This is democracy at work. People in rural constituencies are giving it to politicians in the neck, so well done. The devastation caused by this fungus has a major impact on the incomes of pension funds, investors, farmers and foresters. That is why I cautiously welcome the package. Quite frankly, it is not enough. A farmer and county councillor from County Roscommon wrote to me today to say that he got a price of €3,000 to cut down one tree. These people are not covered in the case.

I thank the Leader for arranging the debate on Lough Funshinagh. I had the opportunity to meet many people at Lough Funshinagh on Sunday. The Leader also had the opportunity to do so last week, and people spoke highly of her and of the Minister. They thank the Leader for getting her feet into boots, as I did, and walking the ground and meeting the people. I thank the Leader for facilitating that debate this afternoon. I will elaborate more on the matter of my visit to Lough Funshinagh during the debate.