asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce if he will indicate which areas of the country are now under lease for mineral exploration; by which companies; and the financial return to the State arising from such concessions.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Mineral Exploration.
90.
It is assumed that the question relates to both leases and prospecting licences. Particulars of the current leases and licences are set out in the half-yearly report furnished by me to the Oireachtas under section 77 of the Minerals Development Act, 1940. The most recent report is in respect of the period ended 30th June, 1968.
Total receipts under the Minerals Development Act, 1940, and the Petroleum and Other Minerals Development Act, 1960, in the form of royalties, dead rents, fees, etc., for the year ended 31st March, 1968, amounted to £163,421.
91.
asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce if he is aware of the extensive survey for mineral deposits that is being undertaken in Mayo and other western counties; and if he will make a statement on the results of these operations.
Minerals exploration is at present being carried out by private concerns under 60 prospecting licences in County Mayo, 56 in County Galway, 28 in County Roscommon, 22 in County Sligo and 17 in County Leitrim.
Information given to me about the results of prospecting under these licences cannot be revealed without the consent of the prospectors.