Matt Carthy (Cavan-Monaghan, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

I wish to clarify a point. I have had a number of engagements with Coillte on its forestry strategy. Regarding its pronouncements on partnerships, I asked it what those might look like. Coillte stated categorically that they would primarily entail engagement with local communities, farmers and current foresters in the first instance. That was not what happened in the first instance, though, so I am interested in whether the Minister and Minister of State are saying that they had a different view. In other words, were they aware that deals like this one with Gresham House would be pursued?

The Minister's statement that was circulated but not read out acknowledged the disquiet over the deal but contained the phrase, "I believe it is unwarranted." That line was removed from the speech he delivered. Am I to take it that he does not stand over the suggestion that the disquiet is unwarranted?