To ask the Minister for Industry and Commerce if the Government have been in negotiation with Messrs. Thos. Ward, Ltd., as to the letting of a site at Haulbowline Dockyard for the scrapping of ships; if an agreement has been arrived at, and if not, would the Minister state what was the cause of the breakdown and with whom lies the responsibility; and, further, if the Government are still open to consider proposals from the firm.
CEISTEANNA—QUESTIONS. - HAULBOWLINE DOCKYARD.
Messrs. Thos. Ward, Ltd., of Sheffield, approached the Government with a view to securing certain accommodation and facilities at Haulbowline for breaking up old warships. Definite proposals were being awaited from Messrs. Ward when on the 28th ulto. the Irish representative of the firm intimated that his principals proposed to let the matter drop, as having considered the question very closely they were of opinion that the time was not ripe for an extension at Haulbowline. The Government is open to receive any further proposals the firm may put forward.