asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce if he is aware that considerable and valuable mineral deposits exist on the lands of Rostellan Castle at Aghada, County Cork, and if he is further aware that these lands have been offered by the owners to the Irish Land Commission for division and forestry purposes; and in the event of acquisition by the Land Commission of these lands what steps will be taken for the acquisition of the remainder of the estate containing deposits of silica formerly worked.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - County Cork Silica Deposits.
I have at present before me an application for the grant of a mining right under Part IV of the Mines and Minerals Act, 1931, in respect of a specified portion of the Rostellan silica deposits. I am not sure whether the question refers to this particular portion of the deposits, but, pending the result of the application which has been made, I think it better not to make any statement with regard to the acquisition of the mineral rights in the area.
Is the Minister free to say in the name of what Party is that application made?
I should require notice of that question.