asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce if he has received the report from the South Eastern Regional Development Organisation concerning the location of the proposed zinc smelter; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Zinc Smelter Site.
17.
I have received a copy of the report.
As to the location of the smelter, I would refer the Deputy to the reply given on 16th November to a similar question by Deputy Collins.
Unfortunately I do not know what was the reply on that occasion. In view of rumours of the proposed closure of the Rosslare-Limerick Junction railway line, which would service the proposed site mentioned in the report, would the Minister have a look at the matter concerning the site at Gurteen?
The reply was that the matter of the examination and detailed scrutiny of proposals from different organisations throughout the world was a responsibility which I had given to the IDA. We gave them a 12-month period from last February for a report and, consequently, I expect that report fairly soon. I anticipate that no action will be taken in the interval that would prejudice the outcome of whatever decision was the correct one technically, which is what I require of them. I was not aware of the matter the Deputy mentioned but I will see that it is brought to their notice.
(Dublin Central): Will the Minister indicate if there is any agreement regarding the financing of the smelter? I realise that is not in the question but we have been expecting a smelter for three years and no decision has yet been made.
This question relates only to the location of the smelter.
(Dublin Central): This is an important matter.
It is an important question but it is totally different. If the Deputy wishes to put down a question I will try to answer it.