Vol. 482 No. 7
32 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for the Marine and Natural Resources if his attention has been drawn to the investment plans by Coillte Teoranta to invest in the sawmilling industry in Northern Ireland; if his attention has been drawn to the potential damage to the timber industry which could arise by virtue of the near monopoly situation which could then exist; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [19016/97]
35 Mr. M. Higgins asked the Minister for the Marine and Natural Resources if reports outlining Coillte's plans to invest £3 million by way of shareholding in Balcas in Northern Ireland has a basis in fact; if so, if he will outline the competitive consequences for Irish owned and run sawmills; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [19129/97]
49 Mr. Farrelly asked the Minister for the Marine and Natural Resources if he approves the investment being made by Coillte in the Northern Ireland Balcas sawmill; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15292/97]
57 Mr. Spring asked the Minister for the Marine and Natural Resources if his attention has been drawn to the proposal by Coillte to invest £3 million in a sawmill in Northern Ireland; if his attention has further been drawn to the fact that this proposal will create a conflict of interest and will place private sawmills at a disadvantage; and the action, if any, he proposes to take to restore a level playing pitch within the sector. [15291/97]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 32, 35, 49 and 57 together.
Coillte Teoranta have sought approval to invest in a sawmilling project in Northern Ireland. This proposal is currently being examined in my Department.
