Fiach MacConghail (Independent) | Oireachtas source

I am not a member of this committee so I thank the Vice Chairman for allowing me to speak because I am passionate about this matter. That is why I am attending this committee meeting rather than the committee of which I am a member. Whether one agrees with the point being made, and I am utterly opposed to the sale, it was a very cogent and clear presentation. The innovative decision to go straight to the top and go for someone like Dr. Peter Bacon, who has credibility, bodes well for the argument. It is a very strong argument and a strong case. I am absolutely opposed on many grounds to the sale of Coillte. It does not make sense. Along with other aspects of our cultural heritage in other areas, such as the National Museum and the National Library, it worries me that there seems to be a sense that the Government is not considering our cultural heritage. I include forestry as important parts of our soul and our DNA.

The witnesses spoke about the union not being afraid of change and referred to the legislative vacuum. While the witnesses are not speaking on behalf of Coillte, it would be helpful to hear about the legislative vacuum because the debate will continue if we win this campaign. Deputy Boyd Barrett has been leading this campaign in a public way. I do not ask for detail on the legislative vacuum but perhaps some comment will be helpful for someone like me, who is not so knowledgeable. What broad change is IMPACT in favour of in terms of future sustainability? The presentation referred to profitability and the loss of funds from Coillte profit flow of €565 million. Did Dr. Peter Bacon get access to figures from Coillte? Has the profit flow figure been rejected? I can see how the Government may look at other figures and argue the toss. I seek clarification on that point.

I have concerns about the mixed messages on this. It is no accident that there are two Independent Senators, who are Taoiseach's nominees, on the same side but a number of Ministers said it might not be for sale. I need a definitive response but there is talk about the forestry review. It is astonishing so many witnesses before the committee have not been consulted. I listened to the debate last week. The article written by Mr. Paddy Woodworth of 12 March in The Irish Times mentions that the Government had commissioned a report from Goodbody stockbrokers. Is that the same as the forestry review? The Goodbody report was supposed to inform the Government why it is of interest or necessity to sell Coillte's harvesting rights. I would like to hear the view of the IMPACT witnesses on that point. Should we get an update on the report?