asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce if he will make a statement on reports that there is a likelihood that coal fields in Arigna which are now being worked will be exhausted in five years; and if he will draw the attention of the IDA to the matter to ensure that early provision is made for alternative industrial employment in the area to be available when the coal mines cease to be worked.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Arigna Coal Fields.
39.
The semi-bituminous coal of these coal fields which is used mainly for generating electricity is in three underlying seams.
Three mines are currently in production in the coal fields. It is estimated that the main seam, which is being worked by the largest operator, is likely to maintain current production for about five years. This operator and the ESB are, with the aid of a grant from the IDA, jointly investigating the suitability of the middle- or crow-coal seam for electricity generating purposes. These investigations are proceeding but it is expected that some further time will elapse before a decision can be taken on the feasibility of the proposal. It is estimated that a successful outcome would enable production to be maintained at an increased rate for about 25 years.
The IDA are closely monitoring the employment situation at Arigna and will keep in close touch with developments in relation to the utilisation of the crow-coal seam.