asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce if industrial alcohol is still being produced in the country; if so, where; from what raw material; and how many people are employed at this work.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Industrial Alcohol.
56.
Industrial alcohol is produced at Cooley in County Louth, Carndonagh in County Donegal and in Cork. The main raw materials used are molasses and sugar. Depending on the supply position, potatoes are sometimes used in the Carndonagh and Cooley factories.
The firms which produce the industrial alcohol also engage in the manufacture of other products and it is accordingly difficult to be precise as to the actual number employed on the production of industrial alcohol alone. It is estimated that about 60 persons are directly employed on this work, apart from administrative and technical staff whose work involves other products as well as industrial alcohol.
Could I ask the Minister if the molasses used is imported molasses?
Yes.
Yes, I believe it is.
If so, why is the surplus of potatoes in Donegal not being used, the surplus for which the people there are complaining they cannot find any market? Why not use that surplus for the production of industrial alcohol?
To the best of my knowledge all suitable potatoes which are available are used. I am sure the Deputy knows that this operation was set up, and indeed tends normally to be used, to take surplus potatoes. If there is a better market for them they are sold on the better market.
Yes.
As far as I know surplus potatoes which are suitable are taken. I have not had complaints to the contrary.
The Minister does not know what price they can afford to pay for potatoes for industrial alcohol?
No, but I know that the price was increased last year.
(Interruptions.)
If molasses is used there does not seem to be much point in it, does there?