Forestry Tasmania’s certification auditors have been requested by PEFC International to look into concerns by the Chairman of the Intergovernmental Forest Agreement’s Independent Verification Group Professor Jonathon West that FT has been harvesting above the sustainable yield.
Forestry Tasmania’s General Manager Forest Management John Hickey welcomed the PEFC decision to investigate the concerns and said Forestry Tasmania would fully cooperate with the inquiry.
Mr Hickey said while the need for the complaint had been generated by Professor Jonathan West’s report, Forestry Tasmania was confident it would pass the investigation with flying colours.
“We are audited each and every year, and all of our past annual audits have shown that we are managing the forests sustainably.
“As you would expect from any reputable certification body, we understand it is routine for PEFC to request this type of inquiry when a potential breach of a certification is drawn to its attention.
“It is appropriate for Professor West’s concerns, and Forestry Tasmania’s denial of those claims to be tested, and hopefully it will put an end to the matter and allow both Professor West and Forestry Tasmania to move on.
“On reflection, Forestry Tasmania believes the difference of opinion between FT and Professor West is based on a misunderstanding, which we hope we might work through with Professor West.
“It is not helpful for critics to seize on an interpretation of Professor West’s remarks to damage Forestry Tasmania and the industry internationally.”
