Tom Hayes (Tipperary South, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

Section 29(3) already provides the Minister with extensive powers to regulate or restrict the landing in the State of anything which is likely to introduce a destructive disease, insect, pest, invasive species or organism. The Minister may direct or authorise the destruction of any such articles or direct their expulsion from the State. In addition the Minister may regulate to ensure the traceability of forestry-related material from the propagation stage to timber and timber products. I assure the Deputy that adequate provision is included in the Bill to regulate for actions to combat the landing of diseased or invasive species in the State and to provide for traceability systems for imported or locally-produced timber. Consequently, I am not in a position to agree to the amendment.