Victor Boyhan (Independent) | Oireachtas source

I welcome the Minister of State and I acknowledge that it is not an easy time to be in that role. It is certainly not an easy time to be a Minister of State from the Green Party in this portfolio and I acknowledge that as well. I know the difficulties and also something of the tensions involving environmentalists and environmental activism. Many of such activists joined the Green Party and remain happy there, but there are always going to be challenges.

I am conscious of that and I want to keep this argument to the issue. I want to also put on record that the Minister of State acquitted herself exceptionally well in the Seanad last week with her responses. It is worth saying that, because I mentioned it to other people, I believe it and I am saying it to the Minister of State directly now. Let us just stick to the core issues.

I support forestry and I have said that before. I do not give blanket support to the Bill, however, as that is not my style. I support much of what is in this Bill. I support a vibrant forestry industry, and all the associated businesses that go with vibrant silvicultural, horticultural and arboricultural sectors. I know the perils and difficulties associated with the importation of wood and what effects that could potentially have on our forestry due to various beetle infestations, infections and diseases. There are challenges and issues in that area. I know the qualities of wood required for the manufacture of chipboard, microboard and inferior pallets. They are all important, and I support a pallet industry. I support jobs, rural Ireland and the vibrance of rural communities. Everyone here does and it is important to state that.

I came in to hear what the Minister of State has to say. This is her opportunity to put on the record her rationale for her response to each of these amendments. That is how I intend to do my business today. I am in favour of the withdrawal of amendment No. 2, as is the proposer, Senator Higgins, with the consent of the House, in favour of amendment No. 1, which was drawn up by my Independent friends and colleagues, Senators Norris and Craughwell.That makes common sense. I have yet to hear whether the Minister of State thinks that is good or if she is happy with it. I look forward to hearing her response.