asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce if he will provide assistance towards a survey to ascertain the extent of coal deposits at Ballinamore, Kiltimagh, County Mayo.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Mayo Coal Deposits.
46.
The Geological Survey Office of my Department have initiated a preliminary survey of a coal-like deposit at Ballinamore, Kiltimagh, County Mayo.
Will the Minister consider giving the development association some financial aid? They are willing to help themselves but in addition to the professional aid provided by the Geological Survey Office they will need some financial aid.
As the Deputy is aware, I met representatives from the local community on 16th January. They told me they had collected some money. My advice to them then was to wait to see if it was viable before spending. I understand that there is no firm opinion in the Geological Survey yet as to viability. If it is, I would be anxious to see it develop quickly and all the agencies of the State in which I have influence would be available to do that. I do not think one should prejudge its viability.
I am not prejudging it; I am asking a question. Would he also provide the same facilities in the Charlestown area for I feel there are similar deposits there also.
That is a separate question.
Any such deposits can be investigated.
As the Minister is aware, money has been collected by the local community with a view to developing this. How soon will the Minister or his Department give help to these people?
The Geological Survey and the Institute for Industrial Research and Standards are carrying out investigations. My reply refers to "a coal-like deposit". This is not coal in the ordinary sense. There seems to be a very large amount of inorganic material, of ash, in it. The question of any viability is a very real one. There is also a suggestion that where it is now found it is there as a result of a slip and did not develop there. They are trying to find the place from where it originally slipped. Therefore, I do not think one can anticipate investment or a firm decision in this area.