Pippa Hackett (Green Party) | Oireachtas source

I thank Senators for their suggestions and comments. The fostering of public debate and transparent communication is very important. The forestry appeals committee currently publicises the results of appeals on its website shortly after a decision is made. That said, I think the suggestions and statements proposed in amendment No. 1 would add to the transparent communication which is vitally important, especially when it comes to environmental issues and people participating in that process, having all the information and understanding why and how decisions are made. With that in mind, I am happy to accept amendment No. 1.

I will briefly address some of the queries and comments that were made. I cannot give a precise timeline for how quick the licensing system will be, but I am hopeful that if the Bill is passed, it will bring about a significant improvement in the efficiency of appeals. Ultimately, the forestry appeals committee is there for appellants. It was put in place for people who were unhappy with decisions made. That is the purpose it serves. It is important to remember that it is there for people who wish to appeal. It has always been open to any person to appeal a decision and that will continue to be the case, which is important.

On the concern relating to Brexit, that is a matter that also was of concern to me, but the timber sector is one of the most protected industries in terms of Brexit because the tariff rate, particularly to the UK, is approximately 5%. I do not have the exact figure to hand but I know it is a low rate compared with the rate on beef, for example, which is far higher at approximately 70%. Timber will potentially be a strong sector if there is a bad Brexit. It is good to know that that sector, which secures many thousands of rural-based jobs might be quite secure in the case of a bad Brexit. That is an issue which Senator Higgins raised on Second Stage of the Bill and I checked it out in the meantime. I was pleased to find out that the timber sector is among the most protected industries.

I am happy to accept amendment No. 1.