O Cuív calls for Coillte to be reformed and developed

Coillte needs to be reformed and developed further, according to Fianna Fáil spokesperson on agriculture Éamon Ó Cuív TD.

He said that the move is necessary so that Coillte is able to meet its full potential which would lead to enhanced afforestation.

Stressing the need for a major planting drive by the public and private sectors, he said forestry and its development are extremely important for rural development in Ireland.

“A successful and thriving Coillte is of extreme importance to the future of the forestry sector and it should remain as a separate state-owned commercial company.

“The development of rural recreation, for example, would help guarantee the sustainable future of Coillte,” he said.

Mr Ó Cuív said an afforestation target of 20,000 hectares per annum should be implemented between 2014 and 2020. This would bring Ireland’s percentage of forest cover closer to the EU average, he said.

Mr Ó Cuív said this would be funded through Coillte profits and a capital investment programme in order to guarantee supply and profit in the future.