asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce whether he will state if the experts who were sent last June to inspect the slate quarries in Valentia Island and the copper mines in Caherdaniel, Co. Kerry, have yet forwarded their report; and, if so, whether he will cause a copy of same to be laid on the Table of the Dáil; and if they have not made out a report, whether he will state the cause of the delay in doing so.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Co. Kerry Mineral Resources.
The examination of samples which were taken on the occasion of the inspection referred to is now practically complete. The testing of these samples has occupied my limited staff a longer time than was anticipated, owing to pressure of work in connection with other examinations where the results appear likely to be more valuable at present. It is hoped, however, that the report will be available in about a fortnight. As promised in my reply to the Deputy's question in October last, I will supply the Deputy with a copy of the report as soon as it is available.