asked the Minister for Agriculture whether he is aware that there are large deposits of limestone available in areas convenient to Passage West, County Cork; that there is a large amount of unemployment in Passage West and whether, in the circumstances, he will investigate the possibility of utilising these lime deposits on the basis of importing phosphates for admixture with limestone and thus provide employment and at the same time an efficient fertiliser for agricultural purposes.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - County Cork Limestone Deposits.
Mr. Walsh
The development of limestone deposits is a matter for private enterprise and consequently the production of ground limestone for admixture with imported phosphates is a matter for commercial interests. Any help or advice which my Department can give in connection with the project will be readily forthcoming but, as regards ground limestone, the area is well catered for by existing plants.
In view of the unsatisfactory answer of the Minister, I ask your permission, Sir, to raise the matter on the Adjournment.
It will be considered with the others.