asked the Minister for Lands and Agriculture whether his attention has been drawn to the continuous felling of valuable trees for export from the Saorstát; whether he is aware that the timber is being sold at a very low price by the producers or owners; and whether he will take any steps to stop this export.
CEISTEANNA—QUESTIONS. ORAL ANSWERS. - EXPORT OF TIMBER.
Mr. HOGAN
The felling of trees for export from the Saorstát is a normal feature in the trade of the country. The price at which the timber is sold is, of course, a matter for agreement between the owners and the purchasers. Any steps to prohibit the export of home-grown timber would require most careful consideration in view of the various interests affected. The general effect of a prohibition of this nature at the present time would be to restrict the market for various kinds of timber, and to give timber merchants in this country a monopoly. Such a prohibition would not, in the Department's opinion, materially stimulate afforestation or the maintenance of woods by private owners. I hope, however, that as a result of the provisions of the Forestry Bill, which will shortly be introduced, a gradual and steady increase in home-grown timber will take place.
In view of the extent of unemployment and the acuteness of the housing problem, does the Minister not consider it had economy to allow timber to be exported and sold at 2s. 6d. a ton?
Mr. HOGAN
If there was a prohibition of exports the timber would probably be sold at a smaller price.
This timber is not used in housing.
Mr. HOGAN
Irish timber is not used to any great extent for housing. They tried to use it during the war but it was not a success.
Is the Minister aware that those engaged in the woodwork industry in Ireland are alarmed at this state of things and think that it promises a very serious state of affairs for the future that so much timber is being exported?