asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce whether the proposal for the construction of a factory and plant to engage in the production of nitrogenous fertiliser will be proceeded with; and, if so, whether this factory will be sited in the West Offaly area.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Nitrogenous Fertiliser Factory.
1.
As has already been announced, the Government have decided to reserve Blackwater bog in West Offaly as a source of milled peat for a factory for the production of ammonium nitrate fertiliser and I have set up a representative Committee to examine the merits of various proposals received from firms of international standing in the chemical and fertiliser industries in regard to the erection of the proposed factory.
This Committee is expected to submit its recommendations at an early date and it is the intention of the Government, following consideration of the Report of the Committee, to take a final decision.
Meanwhile, I am not in a position to make a statement about the location of the proposed factory.
Can the Minister give any indication as to whether the report is likely to be available in the immediate future or in the long term.
I expect it before the end of this month.
Before the 17th?
Before the end of the month.
Is there any inquiry being made (1) into the suitability of ammonium nitrate as a nitrogenous fertiliser for our conditions and (2) as to the world capacity for the production of nitrogenous fertiliser in its relation to potential consumption?
All aspects of the matter are being fully considered.
Have been or are being?
Are being.
Will the report be published or is it confidential?
I could not say that until I see it. It may comment upon proposals received in confidence from some of the firms concerned.
Bearing in mind that ammonium nitrate is the product which blew the port of Texas to blazes within the recent past, will the Minister at least undertake to publish those parts of the report which deal with the question of the suitability of this fertiliser for our conditions and with the world capacity for the production of nitrate related to world consumption?
All aspects will be considered.
The Deputy wants to blow it up along with beet and peat?
I do not want to blow up any trains.
Order!