Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 2 May 2017
1195. Deputy Stephen S. Donnelly asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the estimated impact of a hard Brexit on the forestry sector; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [19892/17]
Amharc ar fhreagraI fully recognise the potential difficulties that the forestry sector could face in the event of a hard Brexit, given the sector's reliance on the UK market. Its particular exposure to the UK market is exemplified by the fact that almost 80% of wood-based panel exports and 70% of sawn timber exports go to the UK. I am also aware of the anticipated increase in the volume of roundwood supply over the next two decades, from a current annual production of almost 4 million cubic metres to 8 million by 2035. Most of this increase is expected to come from private forestry owners, and the current expectations are that the vast majority of the timber is destined for the UK market.
I can confirm that the Government remains focused on supporting the forestry sector through the challenges that lie ahead, including those related to competitiveness, potentially increased competition and reduced demand from the UK market.
I and my Department, together with our agencies and stakeholders, are continuing to examine those areas, including forestry, in which the greatest risks may arise from Brexit, and on which we will need to focus when the negotiations begin. In the meantime, we continue to progress our analysis of the likely implications of Brexit, to increase our engagement with Member States and EU institutions, and to further our consultations with stakeholders. In the latter regard, the forestry sector was represented at the most recent All-Island Sectoral dialogue that I hosted in February, and continues to participate in my Department's Stakeholder Consultative Committee, which met most recently on 11 April.
I can assure you that all of the Department’s ongoing activities will continue to be informed by the need to secure the best possible outcome for the Irish agri-food sector. Ireland will be part of the EU 27 team and looks forward to working with fellow Member States in delivering the best possible result for Ireland and for the EU from the Brexit negotiations.
