Jackie Cahill (Tipperary, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I will wind up the discussion. I thank the witnesses for attending today. We have had two excellent presentations. Clearly, the issue of ash dieback presents a serious financial problem for people with ash plantations. It is something that must be addressed. I am delighted we had presentations from the Limerick and Tipperary growers and from the IFA. The forestry industry is in trouble and we are aware of the level of plantation that will happen in 2020. That shows this industry has serious issues that need to be addressed immediately if it is to have a future. As Deputy Collins said, 12,500 people are employed in this industry. It has major benefits for rural Ireland. It has been in decline for a number of years. It has not happened over night. There are serious issues in the sector. We decided to bring in different stakeholders to discuss it and when we conclude our discussions we will make representations to the Minister. I again thank Mr. Cullinan and Ms O'Sullivan for attending. The committee is adjourned until 4 p.m. on Tuesday, 3 November.