asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce if he is aware that the Browhead Granite Quarries near Dunmanus, County Cork, have been unworked since 1940, and that prior to that time they gave employment to between 80 and 100 men; and, if so, if he is in a position to state if it is proposed to reopen those quarries in the immediate future; and if he is prepared to encourage the re-starting of this important industry.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Browhead Granite Quarries.
I am aware that the quarry referred to by the Deputy was in operation until September, 1939. There is little or no demand locally for the material, and the output of the quarry when working was, to a very great extent, exported to Great Britain. The immediate revival of the export trade is not practicable in existing circumstances.