David Norris (Independent) | Oireachtas source

It would have been helpful and I thank the Leas-Chathaoirleach.

My amendment proposes that "a copy of the report will at the same time be made available to the public on the Government of Ireland website and the Government Publications Office.". This is a fairly straightforward amendment and I do hope very much that the Government will be able to accede to it. This is all in the light of fostering public debate and public inquiries into the question of appeals.

I would like to reiterate what I said the other day because this is very much in line with the United Nations Forest Principles, Article 2(c) of which state, "The provision of timely, reliable and accurate information on forests and forest ecosystems is essential for public understanding and informed decision-making and should be ensured", which is fairly strong. The principles recommend in Article 2(d) that "Governments should promote and provide opportunities for the participation of interested parties ... in the development, implementation and planning of national forest policies.". I cannot think of a greater inducement to public debate than to publish the information so that the public can have access.

Public participation increases public awareness of forests and forestry, enhances social acceptance of sustainable forest management and shares costs and benefits in a fair and equitable way. It can contribute to the reduction of forest conflicts and nurture a positive relationship. Participatory forest management has become a widely accepted solution to forestry problems.

The amendment is positive. I cannot see arguments against it and I hope that the Government will be able to accept the amendment.