asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce if he will state what allocation of coal will be available to Ireland for the second half of this year and if any further supplies are being made available from the United States of America or elsewhere.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Coal Supplies.
As the Deputy is no doubt aware, coal supplies are allocated amongst European countries, including Ireland, on a quarterly basis by the Coal Committees of O.E.E.C. at Paris and the Economic Commission for Europe at Geneva. Allocations for the third quarter of this year have not yet been fixed. Arrangements have been made to import coal from the United States of America to whatever extent may be required, subject to shipping being available for its transportation, during the balance of the year.
Would the Minister say whether the British Government has yet indicated what allocation it will make available to this country in the third and fourth quarters of this year?
No, not finally.
Have any provisional figures been received from the British Government?
Yes, but I think the position will have to be clarified somewhat.
Can the Minister say whether the figure will be at least as good as it was in the last quarter?
I should hope so.
Would the Minister say when he hopes to be in a position to make a definite statement on the matter?
In about a fortnight's time.
Are these figures subject to confirmation by O.E.E.C.?
Certainly.