ExportsMore than three-quarters of the output of forestry processors was exported last year, according to the Irish Forestry and Forest Products Association.

In its annual report published today, the Ibec industry group says exports accounted for €286 million last year, as the domestic market languished.

It warns that failure to reach afforestation targets means the industry may not have enough indigenous raw material in the coming years to meet demand, with a 20 per cent decline in new forest planted, last year.

“Increased productivity may not translate into job creation unless Government addresses a range of issues that are preventing the private sector from planting trees,” says association director Marion Byron.