asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce whether a survey has been carried out to ascertain the possibility of developing mineral resources in County Sligo, and, if so, with what result; and, if not, if he will arrange for such a survey.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Sligo Mineral Resources.
The mineral resources of County Sligo have been surveyed already, and the information which was obtained is made available by the Geological Survey Office to any person who is interested in exploring or developing the mineral deposits of the county. The Deputy will appreciate that minerals development is a matter for private enterprise and that deposits of lead and zinc, barytes and coal in Sligo are already being worked by private interests. So far as other deposits in the county are concerned, I will be prepared to grant any necessary facilities under the Minerals Development Act, 1940, in relation to such deposits to an applicant who can satisfy the customary conditions as to financial and technical resources.