Gerry Adams (Louth, Sinn Fein)
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Question 658: To ask the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if there have been any discussions with the Chinese government or their representatives or investment funds regarding the planned sell off of Coillte's forests; the discussions that have taken place in relation to the proposed sale; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20472/12]

Simon Coveney (Cork South Central, Fine Gael)
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As announced by the Government in February, consideration will be given to the possible sale of some assets of Coillte excluding the sale of land. A valuation of Coillte assets is currently being undertaken by the NTMA (NewERA unit) in conjunction with my Department and the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform. The discussions that have taken place to date in relation to the possible sale of some assets of Coillte have been in the context of the valuation process and the possible options, and associated issues, arising from that process.

No decision on the possible sale of Coillte assets will be taken until the valuation process is completed. It is therefore not possible to engage in discussions with any party until such time as such a decision is made. I also wish to advise that I had no discussions in relation to the possible sale of Coillte assets during my recent visit to China.