Michael Healy-Rae (Kerry, Independent)
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What has delayed us is that we cannot talk about a scheme unless we know exactly what is involved. I thank Coillte and all the other agencies that were involved in the mapping. Let me explain the mapping and the 26,000 ha that have been identified. It is not just a matter of thinking it is a certain amount of windblow. The mapping is extremely exact. We now have all of the evidence that shows exactly where the timber was, what size it was and how old it was. The mapping is a very scientific study of the problem. Now that we know the extent of the problem, we are able to determine exactly how much money will be required and what we will be able to do. Of course, we must bow to our friends in the Department of public expenditure and rely on budgetary constraints to allow us to have a proper scheme. All of us in Agriculture House, including the Minister and me, are fighting our corner to make sure that we will be able to deliver upon the commitment that we gave.