Dáil Éireann díospóireacht -
Tuesday, 27 Nov 1990

Vol. 403 No. 1

Written Answers. - Woodpulp Industry.

Edward Nealon

Ceist:

139 Mr. Nealon asked the Minister for Energy if he is making efforts to have established here a further woodpulp mill in view of the volume of forestry produce becoming available; if any negotiations are now in progress and, if so, the stage which they have reached; if the claims of the north-west, where the raw material exists, are being promoted for the location of this industry; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Edward Nealon

Ceist:

141 Mr. Nealon asked the Minister for Energy if a marine outfall would be necessary for any further woodpulp industry established in the State.

Edward Nealon

Ceist:

142 Mr. Nealon asked the Minister for Energy the requirements as regards quality and types of raw material needed for a viable woodpulp industry.

Edward Nealon

Ceist:

143 Mr. Nealon asked the Minister for Energy the requirements for a new woodpulp industry of the type envisaged for this country, in respect of energy and fresh water.

Minister for Energy (Mr. Molloy)

I propose to take Questions Nos. 139, 141, 142 and 143 together.

Studies by Coillte Teoranta and the IDA show that Ireland will have sufficient raw material, pulpwood and sawmill residues, to support a major new pulpwood industry by the mid-nineties. Discussions have taken place between Coillte Teoranta, IDA and a number of international companies about such a development. While detailed negotiations have taken place with one of these companies, Stora of Sweden, it is not possible to confirm that the project envisaged with this particular company will go ahead. I understand from Coillte Teoranta and the IDA that they are continuing to pursue all possibilities.

The most likely pulpwood development would take the form of a major chemi-thermal mechanical pulp (CTMP) facility which would use both pulpwood from forests and chips/pulpwood from sawmills. The location of the plant will be a matter for the investors having regard to all the implications of an export-orientated enterprise. Substantial power and water supplies will be critical, and some effluent treatment facilities will also be necessary, but it is too early to be specific about exact requirements.