asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce whether he is aware that grave uneasiness prevails in Avoca mining district as a result of the announcement made by the Minister for Finance in his Budget speech that the subsidy for mineral exploration and development may be withdrawn, and whether, in view of the fact that such action would cause much unemployment in the Avoca district, he will give an assurance that development in this area will continue and that there will be no further reduction of the number of workers employed.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Mineral Exploration and Development.
The future of the Avoca mines is at present under consideration, and efforts will be made to avoid causing unnecessary unemployment.
Can the Parliamentary Secretary state that pending a decision on this matter there will be no further unemployment in these particular mines; will there be no reduction in the number of men employed?
I cannot say that, but in considering the matter that question will be borne in mind.
Can the Parliamentary Secretary tell us what is the significance of the statement made at a meeting in Avoca that the Minister for Posts and Telegraphs did not approve of the Minister's decision in that matter?
By whom was that statement made?
A Deputy
By the Irish Press.
It was made by some organiser purporting to speak for the Minister.
By a Fianna Fáil organiser.
Then the Minister for Posts and Telegraphs does approve of the decision. I am glad to hear that.