Vol. 486 No. 1
263 Mr. Finucane asked the Minister for the Marine and Natural Resources if it is an unfair commercial advantage as a result of Government approval for Coillte Teoranta to get involved in sawmilling activity in view of the fact of its almost monopoly position in the supply of raw material to the sawmilling industry itself; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [2008/98]
The Government agreed last month, subject to certain safeguards, to the purchase by Coillte Teoranta of the 80 per cent stake in the Balcas Group, the sawmilling company based in Enniskillen. The safeguards are designed to meet concerns, particularly in relation to the independence of Coillte's log sales system, expressed by the Irish Timber Council. I should add that the approval of the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment is also required in relation to the proposal, in accordance with the requirements of the Mergers and Takeovers (Control) Acts, 1978 to 1996, under which the competition aspect of the proposal will be considered. I understand that she has sought the views of the Competition Authority on the proposed acquisition as provided for under that legislation.
