asked the Minister for Energy if he has had any discussions with the Minister for Finance regarding the problems which arise from stamp duty charges on the acquisition of semi-mature timber stocks.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Stamp Duty.
3.
I am not aware of any problems which have arisen in this regard. I have not, therefore, had any discussions with the Minister for Finance on this issue.
Surely the policy of the Minister's Department is to encourage trade in the semi-mature market as this is the means by which private investment will be further encouraged to get into this area? The stamp duty charges to which I referred are on the sale of timber — not land — and their abolition would encourage people to trade quickly in selling mature timber. Will the Minister reconsider and ask the Department of Finance to look into this matter?
I have made several inquiries in relation to the Deputy's question. I accept what he says but I am not aware of any problems relating to this matter. If the Deputy is aware of a specific problem and gives me the details I will pursue it.