asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce if, in view of the Government's decision to close Ballingarry coalmines, County Tipperary, he will ensure that every effort is made to get new industry into the area.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers (Resumed). - County Tipperary Industry.
85.
I assume the Deputy is referring to the recently announced decision of the Receiver to close the mines. I can assure the Deputy that every effort is being made and will continue to be made to get new industry into the area.
Can the Minister give me any idea of the tonnage of coal still remaining in Ballingarry coalmines?
That is clearly a separate question.
I would assume that the Minister's background information would give some idea. The Minister in his reply said that it is the decision of the Receiver but he, as Minister, could continue to subvent——
The Deputy is making a statement.
I am asking why the Government took a decision not to keep the mines open.
That would be a separate question.
It would arise from the closure. Surely one can ask why they were not kept open?