Andrew Doyle (Wicklow, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I wish to make some points although I am conscious of time constraints. Mr. Moloney was previously chief executive of Glanbia, a private entity which he developed and which worked with suppliers who were private farmers. Coillte is a multifaceted organisation and it manages approximately 50% to 60% of the forest estate and will manage the more mature forests for another while. Deputy Barry referred to taxpayers' money buying off taxpayers' money. Coillte is a commercial semi-State company which is also involved in research and product development which is probably on par or ahead of some countries with more developed forestry. I refer to the added value of the recreational use of forests. If that is €4 million net cost to Coillte, I think it should be counted in the dividend and more should be allowed for further development. I see significant potential for the Avondale forest park in my constituency - which is well known to Deputy Boyd Barrett - which is the home of forestry in this country. Mr. Moloney noted that many of the privately owned forestry companies have people at the helm who developed their skills working for Coillte. How does he see all the facets of Coillte being part of the ultimate aim of developing a proper forestry industry working closely with the private forestry sector, developing the markets and undertaking research and development and the alternative uses of forests for recreation and renewable energy sources?

Unless Deputy Boyd Barrett has specific questions for Mr. Moloney, I propose he be allowed time in the next session as we are anxious to move on to that session.