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Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 5 Jun 1991

Vol. 409 No. 4

Ceisteanna — Questions. Oral Answers. - Timber Imports.

Michael Moynihan

Question:

4 Mr. Moynihan asked the Taoiseach the quantity and value of timber imported to Ireland for each of the past three years.

The following is a statement giving the required information.

Imports of Timber.

Year

Tonnes

£ million

1988

209,425

61.7

1989

244,920

77.3

1990

263,182

87.5

In general it should be noted that commodity detail from external trade statistics does not include: (a) transactions (non-dutiable) of less than £200; (b) trade by firms operating in Shannon Free Airport; and (c) postal packages not covered by customs entries.

Even though this is a statistical question, I would like an indication of the type of timber imported, for example, hardwood or softwood. Can the Minister say if the Government have any policy on the importation of hardwood in particular because there is grave concern about the destruction of hardwood forests, particularly in Africa and South America?

Policy matters do not arise now. This is essentially a statistical question.

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