asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce if he will state (a) what progress, if any, has been made regarding the establishment of an industry to manufacture nitrogenous manures and what is the present position in that regard; (b) whether any proposals for setting up a nitrogen fixation plant are under consideration, and (c) whether it is proposed to give effect to any such proposals.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Nitrogenous Manures Industry.
Major de Valera
The question of the manufacture of nitrogenous manures, including proposals for the setting up of a nitrogen fixation plant, is still under consideration by the Industrial Development Authority. Pending the completion of the investigations, I am not in a position to say whether effect will be given to the proposals.
Major de Valera
Is the Parliamentary Secretary aware that the Minister practically gave the same answer to practically the same question about last March? Has the Parliamentary Secretary been referred to the answer I got on the occasion?
I have.
Major de Valera
I will give the Parliamentary Secretary the reference afterwards if it is necessary. The Minister said then that the industrial authority had considered the matter. Has the industrial authority done anything in the last six months?
I said that they have not completed their investigations.
Major de Valera
In six months. Is the Parliamentary Secretary aware, in view of the present difficulty of getting supplies, particularly equipment, that any chance of setting up such a vital emergency industry is rapidly flowing from us? Will he take immediate action to see what can be done in the matter?
I do not accept the contention, even if this plant was established, that it would be possible to keep it going during an emergency.