Ivana Bacik (Dublin Bay South, Labour) | Oireachtas source

The inadequacy of the plans is baffling. It seems that the Government cannot see the wood for the trees, if I may say. Failures in the licensing system have made the large-scale planting of trees and woodlands an impossible endeavour for many farmers and nurseries. The delays are leading to many dropping out of the system. I have been told that approximately one third of those approved for planting are dropping out before any trees can be planted. Instead of proceeding with the Gresham House deal, why is the Government not focusing on reform of the afforestation system and making afforestation a viable option for farmers and landowners in Ireland? Will the Minister share the Government's policy to explain why the Government is not focusing on this? If this is not the Government's preferred model, as it appears the Gresham House deal is not, then has Coillte gone rogue on the Government?

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