asked the Minister for Transport and Power whether a decision has yet been made to erect a second generating station in Arigna.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Arigna Generating Station.
26.
Investigations carried out in co-operation with the Geological Survey and the E.S.B. by a firm of consultants, commissioned by my Department, have established that there are at Arigna reserves of coal of a quality which technically could be used for the generation of electricity, sufficient to supply an extension to the present generating station. Before any decision to extend the existing station can be considered, however, it will be necessary to establish that the coal can be extracted economically and that regular supplies can be assured for the life of the station.
The necessary further investigations will be carried out in co-operation with the mine owners and the E.S.B. and further expert advice will be obtained, if required.
May I take it, in connection with the mine owners, that all the mine owners in that area will be consulted?
There is a question of the quality of the coal available in the different areas. That will be taken into account in consulting the mine owners.
Does the Minister intend that all the mine owners in the area will be consulted on this matter with regard to quantities of coal?
In the areas where the coal is considered suitable.
Can the Minister give any indication when the final investigations and inquiries will be completed?
I am unable to give any indication.
Has the Minister been pressing this matter?
I have been pressing the matter for a long time.