asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce if he will direct the oil distributing companies to provide suitable fuel-oil storage accommodation at Waterford to meet the requirements of Waterford and neighbouring counties.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Waterford Oil Storage Accommodation.
The oil distributing companies have no storage for heavy fuel oil at Waterford, and users have been supplied direct by rail tank car from Dublin. I am informed that the storage provided by the companies for light fuel oil or gas oil at Waterford is sufficient to meet local requirements. The distribution of both heavy oil and light oil has been impeded in recent times by the transport difficulties, but the companies state that supplies will be available to meet all immediate needs in the Waterford area in the near future.
In view of the fact that many manufacturing concerns are installing oil-burning equipment, I have impressed on the oil distributing companies the urgent necessity of providing adequate storage facilities for petroleum products and of providing also adequate transport to ensure ready distribution. The requirements of the Waterford district will receive attention in common with other districts throughout the country, but delay in meeting the problem may be caused by shortages of equipment.