asked the Minister for Supplies whether he will consider the development of Bellair Bog, near Ballycumber, County Offaly, in response to resolutions passed by the County Councils of Westmeath and Offaly; whether he has any reports available from peat experts as to the resulting economy in the development of this bog during the present emergency; and if he will now have steps taken in this direction.
Ceisteanna.—Questions. Oral Answers. - Development of Offaly Bog.
It is not at present proposed to undertake large scale development works on the bog in question. A preliminary inspection of the bog was made in the year 1942, but having regard to the scarcity of local labour, it was considered that no purpose would be served in proceeding further with the matter. In common with the other bogs in the district, this bog will, in due course, be surveyed in detail to ascertain its suitability or otherwise for future large scale machine development.
Is the Minister aware that the County Councils of Westmeath and Offaly have requested that this bog be developed and that the county councils are in a better position to know the local conditions and whether turf can be produced economically out of this bog than the Minister's Department? Will the Minister promise to have this bog inspected again, as the railway line from Tullamore to Athlone goes right through this bog and all that is necessary is to have a loading bank erected there and a considerable amount of transport would be saved in regard to the haulage of turf if this was undertaken?
I cannot add anything to the reply I have already given to the Deputy.