asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce if it is a fact that within the past three years a North American company offered this country at no capital cost a smelter capable of making iron from Irish ores and residues, with the intention of going on to enlarge the Irish plant to convert North American iron ores to pig iron for sale in Europe; if this offer was accepted in principle by the Government in March 1960; and if he will state the reasons why the offer was rejected.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Rejection of Smelter Offer.
19.
During 1959 and 1960, discussions took place with a North American company regarding a project for the establishment of a smelter which would produce iron from Irish ores and residues, with the possibility of developing to the processing of imported ores from North America. In March, 1960, the Government agreed in principle to provide facilities, subject to the details of the final proposal being acceptable. The project was not, however, proceeded with by the principals.
Incidentally, it is not correct to say that the project would have involved no capital cost for the Government.