Andrew Doyle (Wicklow, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

Mr. McKenna has been the chairman of Coillte for a while and will continue as chairman for the next two years. Coillte is a semi-State company that is about to undergo change. In the next couple of years more than 50% of the supply of timber will come from the private sector, as opposed to State lands. No matter what else happens, we all agree the State will still own the land. The question is complicated, and I am glad to hear Mr. McKenna say no recommendation will be made at least until the third quarter of 2013. This is not something that should be taken lightly. I have serious concerns about making sure the sector as a whole is best served by the next move. I live in Wicklow, so I am probably as aware of this matter as anyone else.

At the end of this process there will be a change in the structure of the forestry industry. What will Coillte's role be as primary manager or as manager of harvesting rights and in the interaction between the private and public sectors? How can we secure supply for timber processors, both private and Coillte's own, and the biofuel industry, which is a sector we have not mentioned?

We have not mentioned the extensive recreational and other uses of forests, which have major potential in the area of tourism, among other areas, if they are managed well and serious consequences if they are not. Mr. Gunning and Mr. Egan outlined the seven discussion points that are being considered. It is almost like having to decide the right combination to advance. We have a long way to go on that.

As chairman of Coillte - he will probably be in the chair, whether he likes it or not, when this process is completed - what does Mr. McKenna think would be the best structure for the forestry sector? Given his vast experience in other areas, particularly with Abbott Laboratories and others, he probably has a vision. I feel he has been asked to stay on as chairman because he has that vision, and I would like to hear it.