asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce if he has under consideration any plans for the establishment of local industries in the Swinford-Ballyhaunis area of County Mayo; if he is aware of the necessity for such industrial expansion in this area in view of its high labour content; and if he has made any inquiries as to the possibility of giving a lead to local enterprise in this connection.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Establishment of Industries in County Mayo.
The starting of a new industry in any locality is primarily a matter for private enterprise, and the choice of location rests with the promoters of the industry. I have not recently received proposals for the establishment of industries in the Swinford-Ballyhaunis area, but any proposals which may be submitted to me for industrial development in that area will be sympathetically received.
Is the Minister aware that in the Carrowcastle-Cloonmore area, there exists a coal mine which was extensively worked some years ago, and that there is also, I understand, a quantity of iron ore nearby? Would the Minister agree to have investigations carried out, taking into consideration the large labour content of the work and the necessity for establishing industries in that area?
I doubt very much the existence of a coal mine in Carrow-castle, but perhaps the Deputy will consider approaching the Geological Survey which will be able to give him a good deal of information.
I saw the shaft not later than last Sunday. The local people have tried to ascertain the depth and it is considered to be something over 60 yards. From what they have been told by older residents who are now dead, it was worked to a considerable extent some hundred years ago and coal of very high quality mined there.
I never knew I was living on a coal mine until to-day.