asked the Minister for Finance the progress made in the sale of Ballingarry collieries, County Tipperary.
117.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - County Tipperary Mines.
116.
asked the Minister for Finance the present position with regard to Ballingarry coal mines, County Tipperary; if there is any prospect of the mines being reopened and, if not, if there is any proposal for an alternative industry in the area.
With your permission, a Cheann Comhairle, I propose to take Questions Nos. 116 and 117 together.
Since the Ballingarry mine was put up for sale by the Receiver last October a number of inquiries have been received from prospective purchasers but so far no firm and acceptable offer for purchase has been made. Efforts to dispose of the mine as a going concern are continuing and I cannot say what the prospects are for reopening the mine. I understand that the Industrial Development Authority is engaged in negotiations with a number of promoters interested in industrial projects in the Ballingarry area.