Eamon Gilmore
Question:236 Mr. Gilmore asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and Forestry his views on the COFORD Report, Path-way to Progress; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3151/94]
Ceisteanna—Questions. Written Answers. - COFORD Report.
In appointing the Council of COFORD in April 1993, I asked the Council to develop and present a medium and long term research programme for the sustainable development of the Irish Forest Industry. The report Pathway to Progress represents the completion of that aspect of COFORD's terms of reference.
The report is a comprehensive evaluation of the research needs of the forestry sector in Ireland identifying specific areas of research under five broad headings:
—Reproductive material;
—Silviculture and Forest Management;
—Harvesting and Transport;
—Wood processing; and
—Socio Economic.
COFORD has received almost 80 separate research proposals which will be evaluated for scientific merit, industry need and value for money. I expect that COFORD will have completed this task by year end so that research proposals will be approved early next year.