A3P CEO Mr Neil Fisher said, “The demise of the Forest Biosciences Division is extremely disappointing to the whole of the industry. Forest and wood products have a vital role to play, in the sustainable future of land management, in Australia and a focal point for research is essential. “The Forest Biosciences Division currently plays a fundamental national role in researching key issues, such as the role of forest and wood products in climate change and the production and use of bioenergy. “With a decision like this the industry faces a massive setback to the long term research that is needed to ensure we live in a sustainable Australia.” Earlier this month the Federal Government announced in the Budget a reduction in direct funding to CSIRO over the next four years of $63.4 million. The CSIRO has reacted to these cuts by, among other things, closing the Forest Biosciences Division and moving its staff and projects into Plant Industries, Sustainable Ecosystems and Material Science and Engineering Divisions. Mr Fisher said,” The CSIRO now have no dedicated forest specific research, the forestry research has now been split into different areas. “A3P is concerned that while current forest and wood products research will continue the diverse expertise and essential equipment required to support the industry will be spread to the four winds and will be unable to work together. “A3P calls on CSIRO and the responsible Minister Senator Kim Carr, Minister for Innovation, Industry, Science and Research, to find a way to provide an ongoing focal point for forest and wood product industry research within CSIRO. “Ultimately we could face the risk of having to go overseas to find research and development (R & D) providers for forest and wood products related R & D”.
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Further informationNeil Fisher, CEO A3P - 0412 637 550
Lisa Dogan, Communications Officer A3P – 0414 552 225