Study into forestry potential

CONSULTANTS are being appointed to assess possibilities for the continued strategic development of the forestry industry, which is estimated to employ more than 10,000 people and has an annual turnover of some €500 million.

Agriculture and Food Minister Joe Walsh announced his decision last night during a symposium on the industry at the SWS Group in Bandon, Co Cork.

The study will relate to the conditions of the existing strategy, launched in 1996, CAP reform, including the single payment entitlement, current funding methods and structures. It will also examine the national and international market and environmental developments including the non-timber aspects of the sector.

“This largely economic and value for money driven study should enable us to clarify current assumptions and provide the basis for policy changes where these might be necessary.

“It will be a relatively quick study and will be submitted to me before the end of September this year,” he said.

The EC is also in the process of producing a communication on European forest strategy. “We will take EU views fully on board while having regard to the very specific and forest situation here,” he said.