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Dáil Éireann debate -
Thursday, 19 Jul 1962

Vol. 196 No. 16

Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Mining Research.

47.

asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce if he will consider setting up an expert advisory section to deal with all matters appertaining to mining research.

The conduct of mining research in this country is in the first place a matter for private enterprise. I have within my Department, however, the Geological Survey Office, which, in fact, constitutes just such an expert advisory section as the Deputy suggests. It is the almost invariable practice of people interested in mineral development in Ireland to consult that office which is in a position to offer them valuable advice and guidance, and I am happy to be able to say that I have received a number of tributes from such people to the assistance there rendered them.

Would the Minister not agree that on account of the considerable extension of mining in this country this advisory section needs to be increased considerably? If we had an advisory service we might not have happenings such as in the case of the Avoca mines.

I cannot understand the Deputy's qualification. I have just told him that we have an advisory service. We have a very efficient director of that office and I have had no complaint from him that he is over-burdened or that he requires additional staff. If he does make such a complaint or representation to me it will receive my sympathetic consideration.

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