Vol. 413 No. 9
168 Mr. J. O'Keeffe asked the Minister for Energy his views on whether, in relation to forestry development work, there should be fair and open competition between all parties; if he will ensure that Coillte Teoranta, as the State forestry company, operates in this competitive field without subsidy; and if he will outline the way he will ensure that this will be done.
I believe that fair and open competition is one of the requirements to the success of an expanding forestry programme and that all parties should operate within these principles.
Coillte Teoranta does not receive a subsidy for its day-to-day operations including forestry work carried out for other parties and I do not anticipate any change in that position. I am satisfied that the necessary powers are in the Forestry Act, 1988, and the Competition Act, 1991, to ensure Coillte's compliance with the principles of fair competition.
