asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce if he is aware that eight married men have recently been disemployed at the Avoca Copper Mines, County Wicklow; and if he will examine the possibility of retaining these men in employment, pending a definite decision regarding the future operation of the mines.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Avoca Copper Mines.
32.
I am informed by the receiver of St. Patrick's Copper Mines Ltd. that a number of men were employed in connection with the preparations for the auction of obsolete equipment which took place at the end of January. As the auction has now been completed, the services of the men in question are no longer required.
33.
asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce if he is yet in a position to make a statement regarding the future of the Avoca Copper Mines, County Wicklow.
I have just received the report of the consultants who have carried out an expert assessment of the Avoca copper mines. The report is now being examined, and a decision concerning the future of the mines will be taken as soon as possible.
Can the Minister say when he will publish the report?
It has only just been received and I have yet to examine it.
Will the Minister say whether he will defer publication until he has come to a decision on the report or whether he will publish it now, so that the public can consider the matter at the same time?
I would prefer to consider my position in that respect before I decide when it should be published.