Charlie McConalogue (Donegal, Fianna Fail)
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It is fair to say it is time well spent in terms of getting the application to be as comprehensive as it possibly can be before we submit it. In terms of several briefings we have given on this so far, we would love to be able to give a definitive date and we would if it was possible but we have to work with the application process and respect the prerogative of those who we applied to, to go through the process. We are fully on top of the engagement and work required. Everything that can be done is being done to make sure we get as quick an answer as possible. All I can do at this stage is to outline the potential possible timeframes and outline that we will do all we can to achieve the near end of that timeframe. We will make sure that in terms of how we manage our workflow that of existing applications such as the de minimusscheme, people that are planting now are getting the new rates, and will have the full benefit of that. All of the licensing work that is possible are going into that so that we are continuing to clear the decks and that we have the capacity to deal with and manage and prioritise afforestation licences once it is possible to accept them and make decisions on them.