This week, Thomas Hubert reports on the breakdown in relationships between Coillte and the 630 farmers with which it engaged with in forestry partnerships. Clearly the level of engagement with farmers fell well below what we would expect from a State-owned company. Similarly, questions are rightly being asked as to the level of transparency in contracts where Coillte fulfils the position as both the buyer and seller of farmers’ timber. It is encouraging to see the company apologise to farmers and commit to address issues around continuity of payment. We will watch with interest as to how relationships improve.