(1) The functions of the Evaluation Committee are-

(a) to evaluate applications for timber utilization contracts in accordance with qualifications and criteria provided by regulations made under this Act; and

(b) to rank the qualified applicants on merit through a competitive procedure prescribed by regulation under this Act.

(2) For the purpose of subsection (1) of this section the Evaluation Committee may in respect of any evaluation-

(a) request for such relevant documents and information;

(b) co-opt such persons as it considers necessary.

(3) The Evaluation Committee shall submit all evaluation reports together with recommendations thereon to the Commission within 42 days of receipt of the application.