asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce if his attention has been drawn to a recent letter to the Press by the consulting engineer to the Shannon Estuary Company in which he states that he was in close touch at the time with the gentleman chiefly concerned (with the establishment of an oil refinery in this country), and that this gentleman was most disappointed when his recommendation for Shannon was turned down, as he said, for political reasons; and if in view of the serious implications of such a charge he will make a statement in the matter.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Shannon Estuary Company.
35.
In accordance with the established practice of the Industrial Development Authority, the selection of a site for the oil refinery in this country was regarded as entirely matter for the promoting Companies. On 12th July, 1955, the Authority were formally advised that Whitegate had been indicated as the most economic site and that other locations had, therefore, been definitely excluded from further consideration by the Companies concerned.
Do I take it, then, there is no truth in the statement contained in that particular communication?
The Deputy may take it that there is truth in the statement which I have given to the House now, that the selection was made by the companies.
I should hope so.