asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce whether he is prepared to make available to interested parties a memorandum setting out (a) the industries which could be established based on the by-products of the oil refinery, Whitegate, County Cork, and (b) the location and suitability of industrial sites on both the eastern and western approaches to Cork Harbour.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Industries Based on Products of Oil Refinery.
As regards (a) of the Deputy's question, I am aware that a wide range of commodities can be produced from oil. I am having the position actively examined so far as the Whitegate Refinery is concerned but I am not in a position to make a memorandum on the subject available. As regards (b), the location and suitability of sites for the establishment of an industry is a matter for the promoters concerned.
Am I to take it that the Minister does not intend to provide, at any time, a memorandum such as is requested?
No; that is correct. I do not see what purpose a memorandum would serve.
Surely such information should be made available to the investing public of this country and would be more important than Ministers' speeches at annual reunions?