asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce if he is aware that a survey of mineral deposits has been undertaken in County Mayo in recent times; and what progress is being made to bring the mines there into production.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Mayo Mineral Survey.
20.
Exploration by private concerns for mineral deposits in County Mayo is at present taking place under 41 prospecting licences, covering about 450 square miles. I have approved the grant of a further 36 licences, and applications for another 16 are at present being processed in my Department.
Information given to me about the results of prospecting under these licences cannot be revealed without the consent of the prospectors. I should add that the exploitation of mineral deposits is a matter for private enterprise.