Pat Deering (Carlow-Kilkenny, Fine Gael)
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I thank the delegates for their powerful and self-explanatory presentation. The previous speakers do not have a monopoly on their objection to the sale of forestry rights. As the Chairman knows, this matter has exercised our parliamentary party during many meetings. We have been bringing the matter to the Minister's attention for a long period. We hope for a successful conclusion to our lobbying shortly. It is important that certainty be brought to the issue soon.

I welcome the delegation, particularly Mr. Patrick Murray, who is from my part of the country. When I had cause to visit the Murray Timber Group I was impressed with the facilities. I had not visited a saw mill for many years, although the one in question was not far from me. Amazingly, a piece of timber that arrives in the yard is not handled until it exits on the other side. This is due to the technology and number of people involved. The timber business is important for areas such as Ballon, County Carlow, and others that have been mentioned. It creates employment in rural areas where there are no alternatives. It is essential that the sector be maintained. The issue boils down to how much money can be derived from the sale. It makes no economic sense to sell the harvesting rights. It will not generate the amount planned and will provide no benefits.

The Government has requested a significant investment in SmartPly in the south east. Have the delegates an opinion on how such an investment would affect their businesses? According to the presentation, businesses are already paying Coillte a premium price of 29% compared with the English equivalent. This is a significant amount. Why is it so high? Can it be pared back?

The Opposition parties do not have a monopoly on this issue. I am supportive of the proposals made by the delegates.