asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce if he is aware of any foreign interests intending to investigate the presence of oil deposits in West Clare, and, if so, if he will give particulars.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - West Clare Oil Deposits.
I am not aware that any foreign interests intend to undertake a special investigation for oil deposits in West Clare but a tentative approach has been made by a foreign group who have indicated that, at a later stage, they might seek prospecting licences for oil and natural gas in some parts of the country. Any such application, if received, will be considered having regard to the provisions of the Minerals Development Act, 1940, and other relevant circumstances.
asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce whether a survey has been made to investigate the possibility of the existence of oil deposits in West Clare and, if so, with what result; if not, whether it is proposed to arrange for such a survey.
The possibility of locating oil deposits in the West Clare area was investigated by the Geological Survey in 1955. The results of this investigation, which are available for inspection by interested parties, would not warrant the carrying out, at State expense, of a special survey for oil in West Clare.
The undertaking of any further examinations for oil in West Clare, and in other parts of the country, is a matter for private enterprise and I would be prepared to grant any necessary facilities under the Minerals Development Act, 1940, in relation to such examinations to persons or groups who can satisfy the customary conditions as to financial and technical resources.