asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce whether any recent investigation has been made by his Department into the possibility of finding oil in Ireland, and, if so, with what results.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Oil Resources Investigation.
There are technical considerations which place oil investigation in a very special category. While some investigations have already been made in my Department I am not in a position to make any statement in the matter pending the outcome of consideration which is being given to the possibility of enlisting the cooperation of private enterprise and the feasibility of making certain provisions without which the participation of private enterprise in the necessary exploratory work may be difficult to obtain. I do not wish the Deputy to assume from this answer that the present indications are either favourable or unfavourable.
May I take it from the Minister's answer that the Geological Survey Branch of his Department is capable of handling this question?
They have a considerable amount of information on the matter. In addition, a private group has undertaken a reconnaissance survey of this field and their report, together with the whole background of the problem, is at present being examined. I would like to emphasise again that the Deputy is not to take it that all that examination either indicates a favourable or unfavourable outlook until we get further into this problem.
Would the Minister inform the House as soon as he is in a position to do so?
Yes, but I want the House to remember that they must not expect any early announcement on this because a considerable amount of survey work is necessary before we can even pronounce on what the future prospects are.