asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce if he is now in a position to make a statement on the report of Ceimicí Teoranta on the project for the manufacture of nitrogenous fertiliser, and whether it is proposed to embark on the project in the near future.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Manufacture of Nitrogenous Fertiliser.
Major de Valera
The question of manu- facturing nitrogenous fertilisers in this country is still under consideration; and I am not yet in a position to make a statement in the matter.
Major de Valera
The Minister gave me that reply a number of months ago. Does that mean that no further pro- gress has been made, in spite of the groundwork that was done in regard to that project?
Is that the end of the question?
Major de Valera
Yes.
This matter involves very careful consideration so far as the agricultural community is concerned. It concerns not merely the Department of Industry and Commerce but the Department of Agriculture and the Department of Finance. Detailed consideration of this project has been proceeding for some time and a technical examination of all the area involved has also been undertaken. A decision has not yet been arrived at so far as the question of establishing a nitrogenous fertiliser industry is concerned. I leave this sobering thought with the Deputy, that the examination so far has shown that this may well result in a substantial increase in fertiliser costs for the Irish farmer.
Sir, is it not a fact that the thought is sobering the Minister?
Can you agree as to who will ask the questions?
Major de Valera
Does not the Minister consider it desirable to make a statement, especially as two and a half years have elapsed since plans were known to have been in an advanced state?
You had 19 years when you were in Government.
Major de Valera
I wish to give notice that, with your permission, a Cheann Comhairle, I shall raise this matter on the Adjournment.
I shall communicate with the Deputy.
Should the Minister for Agriculture not come in on this? He will not attend Cabinet meetings but we will bring him in.
"Ten fields of inspectors."
You have thousands of them and you have no work for them.
Order! No. 7.