asked the Minister for Energy if he has had any discussions regarding the level of competition between developers in the forestry planting area.
Ceisteanna — Questions. Oral Answers. - Forestry Planting.
11.
I have had discussions with my officials, with representatives of private forestry companies and with Coillte Teoranta in relation to various aspects of competition in the forestry planting area. It is my concern to ensure that there is fair competition between all involved in forestry development so as to maximise new planting at the lowest cost.
Will the Minister change the system of inspection for grant applications, because there is a fear among private developers that the current system of forestry-employed Coillte Teoranta officers is not working?
For staffing reasons Coillte Teoranta's network of local inspectors are used by my Department on an agency basis to give forestry advice and to carry out inspections. However, the company have no responsibility for grant payments. My Department have their own professional unit who monitor the services provided by Coillte Teoranta staff. Following a review of the arrangements with Coillte Teoranta, I now intend to bring private forestry inspection and advisory services back within the ambit of my Department so that they are fully independent of Coillte Teoranta.