asked the Minister for Energy the guidelines used to determine the location of the semi-mature timber offered for sale by his Department in July, 1987 and September 1987.
70.
Written Answers. - Semi-Mature Timber Sales.
66.
asked the Minister for Energy the total cost of marketing the July 1987 and September 1987 sales of semi-mature timber; and whether any private consultants were engaged for these projects.
I propose to take Questions Nos. 66 and 70 together.
The cost of advertising lots of immature forests in 1987 was £6,175. They were advertised widely both in this country and abroad.
Private consultants were not engaged in marketing the lots. I had previously stated that I was not prepared to sell this timber unless realistic prices which reflected true market value were received. Any misguided expectations to the contrary have now been dispelled. All lots sold did reflect their true market value.
The guidelines used in determining the location of the timber were that, on the basis of age, species, yield class and size, the lots should broadly reflect State forestry countrywide while at the same time being accessible to potential purchasers.