Michael Fitzmaurice (Roscommon-Galway, Independent)
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Can we get some idea of the cost? If every plant is going to get this disease, do we have any idea how many have it now? I understand that the witnesses may not know the situation around the country, but what percentage of trees have the disease now? Is there anything to prevent the disease from spreading, or is it just inevitable that it will? What would be the cost to cut to the chase and cut the timber down as firewood? Some money would be made out of doing that, and there is no point in saying otherwise because people do not sell timber for nothing.

In respect of the re-establishment of plantations and whatever is chosen instead of ash for plantations, and the provision of grant aid, can the witnesses contextualise what will be required? I note that there was reference in the opening statement to the importation of trees. The reality is that I got information that there are county councils in this country bringing in Christmas trees. We have seen the problem in Germany with spruce trees, so we need to be very careful of importation.

It is very sad especially for the people from hurling counties that one of the things for which we are recognised will be affected. I refer to the many people who buy ash trees to make hurls in different parts of the country. It is sad that that is in jeopardy as well.