asked the Minister for Fisheries and Forestry the number of people that are at present employed by the Department of Forestry at Dundrum Saw-mills, County Tipperary; the number of people that were employed there in 1982 and in 1983; the plans he has for the expansion of production at these saw-mills as these mills are only working to a fraction of their full potential; if the drying kiln is being used at present at Dundrum Saw-mills; and if he will make a statement on these matters.
Written Answers. - County Tipperary Saw-mills.
478.
The total number of staff, including forester-in-charge and assistant forester at present employed at Dundrum Saw-mills is 22 which is at the same level as in 1982 and 1983.
The saw-mills' primary functions are to provide for the special sawn-wood requirements of the FWS itself and to contribute to on-going timber technology research carried out by FWS staff in association with the IIRS. Having regard to the excess of sawmill capacity over sawlog supply in the country generally the operation of the mills at full capacity could be achieved only at the expense of private commercial saw-mills.
A new drying kiln has been installed in the mill and is now operative. Other developments, either completed or in prospect, include a new stacking area, a covered storage area for kiln-dried timber and the installation of some modern equipment.